Slow starts for free agent additions
While Antetokounmpo has been firing on all cylinders, the same largely can’t be said for the many additions the Bucks made over the offseason. That starts with the veteran-laden pickups that have all carved out regular roles in the Bucks’ rotation to varying degrees.
Wesley Matthews earned the vacant spot in the Bucks’ starting lineup in lieu of Malcolm Brogdon’s departure, but he’s yet to make a substantial impact, especially on the offensive end. The Madison native is averaging 7.1 points and with 69 percent of his shots coming from beyond the arc, the 33-year-old has knocked down 36.1 percent of his 61 total three-point attempts this season.
Robin Lopez has yet to make a meaningful impact in his new surroundings and he’s had trouble adjusting to the Bucks’ five-out system where he’s 6-of-25 from three-point range to start the year (24 percent). The question has to be asked whether all of the wrestling hits he’s taken before Bucks games are affecting his shooting motion and impacting his effectiveness (semi-kidding).
Kyle Korver has fared better than any newcomer the Bucks brought on over the summer and he’s found instant chemistry with Antetokounmpo, in particular, with 10 of Korver’s 21 triples this season being assisted by the reigning MVP himself. With that said, his three-point shooting has taken a hit throughout the November as he’s hit on 34 percent of his 32 three-point attempts this month.
Beyond that, Thanasis Antetokounmpo has taken on the role of the Bucks’ new human victory cigar and all of Dragan Bender‘s minutes so far this season have come on assignment with the Bucks’ affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd.
The Bucks are clearly playing the long game this season, but it’s fair to wonder whether they’re as deep as they were at their peak last season.