Milwaukee Bucks: One bold prediction for every player

Eric Bledsoe

Prediction: Will average over six free throw attempts per game

Why it will happen: This is a bold prediction because Bledsoe has averaged over six free throw attempts per game just once in his nine-year career, in 2016-17 with the Phoenix Suns. Last season with the Bucks, Bledsoe averaged just 4.3 trips to the charity stripe per game.

However, with a full offseason with his teammates and the new coach, Bledsoe could be shaping up for a big year. With more attention being paid to Giannis and Middleton, Bledsoe is likely to see more one-on-one action and mismatches.

Budenholzer loves to run pick-and-rolls, and a pick-and-roll with Bledsoe as the ball-handler with either Giannis or Middleton as the screener will likely draw attention toward them and away from Bledsoe, giving him more space to work for a mismatch.

Bledsoe’s superior athleticism and size make him a tough guard for any point guard in the league, and when he plays downhill toward the basket, he can be incredibly difficult to guard without fouling.

Bledsoe is also aggressive in attacking in transition, something he didn’t get a chance to do much last season under coach Jason Kidd and Joe Prunty’s system. Under Budenholzer, he’ll be allowed to push the pace more and get to the basket before the defense can get set.

Why it won’t happen: Bledsoe tends to fall in love with his jump shot. A little too much. Too many times in isolation, Bledsoe would choose to take a contested three or long two last season, which was incredibly frustrating to watch.

Last season, Bledsoe averaged just 4.3 free throw attempts per game, the lowest of his career since he became a full-time starter. Entering his ninth season, age may be catching up to him and declining his athleticism, which set him apart as a point guard.

All the coaching in the world can’t slow down father time.