Small Forward
Khris Middleton | Thanasis Antetokounmpo
As already referenced, many of the players in the previous category may well be asked to slot in at small forward over the course of the season. When it comes to players with the kind of size most naturally associated with playing the 3, the Bucks are a little light on options, though.
There’s no such issue when it comes to the starting small forward as, in a role reversal of the shooting guard spot, Khris Middleton makes for the obvious first choice, even if there’s little to fall back on behind him.
Middleton did spend more time at the shooting guard spot last season than he had for quite some time, but it was still relatively minimal as that situation would only arise when coach Mike Budenholzer opted to lean into bigger lineups. Without a doubt, at this point in his career, the 3 makes for the best fit for Middleton.
Behind Middleton at small forward is Thanasis Antetokounmpo, the only remaining player reported to have agreed to a deal with the Bucks whose signing has yet to be made official (although that could change Sunday at the Giannis MVP Celebration).
The elder Antetokounmpo represents a major unknown in terms of what he’ll be able to give the team next season, and based on his track record in Europe, he may simply be called upon for situational, defensive minutes.
Antetokounmpo’s shooting struggles make for a significant element that will likely hold him back from a larger role, and in an ideal world the Bucks would probably like to add another shooting wing, but with the size to act as natural cover at the 3. Between both wing spots, the Bucks should have more than enough options not to be left short in terms of numbers, though.