Milwaukee Bucks: 3 takeaways from 127-119 loss to Charlotte Hornets
By Dalton Sell
The rookies flash potential for the Milwaukee Bucks in loss to Hornets
Milwaukee’s rookie trio has been mostly buried at the bottom of the rotation this season, but the injury hits to the roster allowed them to see some action Friday night.
Among the three, Jordan Nwora unquestionably had the biggest impact by tallying a team-high 24 points on 9-of-16 shooting, including 4-of-10 from behind the arc. Nwora’s sweet shooting and scoring touch were both on full display last night, and the rookie impressed. Fans have been clamoring for the Lousiville product to get more time in the primary rotation, and his latest performance reinforces that belief.
Along with Nwora, undrafted rookie Mamadi Diakite also had himself a career night as he scored 10 points on 2-of-5 shooting. Although the big man scored a large portion of his points at the free throw line by shooting a perfect 6-for-6, it was the first time he finished in double figures during his young career. Also hauling in five rebounds, an assist, and two steals, it was an all-around solid performance from the 24-year-old.
Lastly, sharpshooting rookie Sam Merrill also had himself a nice outing, although he was hindered by a tough shooting night. The rookie finished with 13 points on a lackluster 5-of-13 shooting, including 3-of-8 from distance. Still, confidence will be the key to unlocking that lethal shooting ability of his, and he continued to let it fly all night long trying to find a groove.
While none of the three rookies were perfect, the opportunity is something that everyone has been looking for. Each can bring something different to the table, and it was good to see them get some action rather than stay spectating on the end of the bench. Whether or not their performances last night help them net any future minutes remains to be seen, but they deserve a shot.