Milwaukee Bucks: 5 trends to watch for over the second half of season

Jrue Holiday’s growing influence on the Milwaukee Bucks

Last but certainly not least, Jrue Holiday continues to be the difference maker that the Bucks envisioned him to be when they made their landmark deal in the offseason.

Unfortunately, it was in the 10 games where Holiday recovered from his bout with COVID-19 that showed exactly what the Bucks were missing without their well-rounded star guard. His late game heroics in their win over the Memphis Grizzlies gave us quite the reminder of what he’s capable of, even at less than 100 percent and working his way back into shape.

Now as he’s re-entered the Bucks’ starting lineup, it’s Holiday who looms large on the successes the Bucks are looking to achieve over the second half.

With his versatile defensive services that helps him check opposing ball handlers and stronger-bodied wings, Holiday has been the leading element behind the Bucks’ defensive experimentation. And the fact that he’s been highly efficient as the Bucks’ third option has helped steady the ship for Milwaukee.

While the Bucks will have to work to earn the benefit of the doubt come playoff time, Holiday continues to show little by little why it could be a new day in this department. Fingers crossed that continues to hold as we inch closer to that portion of the season.

As the Milwaukee Bucks continue rounding into form over the second half of the season, we’ll explore the trends that all emerge from their performances. Stay tuned.