Milwaukee Bucks: Midseason injury report cards

Jabari Parker

Last but certainly not least, perhaps the biggest talking point in recent Bucks’ history is the long-term health of Jabari Parker’s left knee. Bucks management have never shied away from the fact that they will be cautious in introducing Parker back into the team and since his return, they have done just that.

In six games, Parker is averaging only 17.6 minutes per contest. While there have been flashes of brilliance (dunking over two Hawks defenders certainly qualifies in this instance), it has been a slow burn for Parker’s return. At this stage, he is averaging less than 10 points per game and is shooting only 25 percent from deep.

Nevertheless, the fact that he is seeing time on the court at all is encouraging, not least as he’s still able to show flashes of the athleticism that led to Milwaukee selecting him with the second overall pick. There is very minimal evidence to suggest that any athlete returning from a second ACL reconstruction should be anywhere near their 100 percent best, so it will be very interesting to see how Parker is used post All-Star break.

Bucks management have an enormous decision to make on Parker’s future this offseason, further highlighting the importance of his next 25 games. Given his current condition and timeline, chances are we won’t get to see the best of Parker until at least next season.

Next: Milwaukee Bucks: How each player can improve before the season’s end

What Jon Horst chooses to do with Parker this offseason is anyone’s guess. Let Parker walk at the risk of him becoming a future All Star? Or sign him to a big deal and take a punt on his long term health? What is for certain though is that the next few months could define both Parker and the Bucks’ future.