Milwaukee Bucks: 3 players that could go on a tear down the final stretch
By Dalton Sell
Bobby Portis could go on a tear for the Milwaukee Bucks
Since returning from a four-game absence after a bout with the league’s health and safety protocols, Bobby Portis has started in three of his five appearances. In that time, he is averaging 15.4 points on .492/.467/.750 shooting splits, 11.2 rebounds, and an assist per game, undoubtedly making his presence felt.
With Milwaukee’s frontcourt thinned due to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s knee soreness and P.J. Tucker’s lingering calf strain, the Bucks have needed every bit of Portis’ contributions. There is currently no timetable for both Antetokounmpo or Tucker, meaning the team will remain dependent on Portis to spark some life into the frontcourt in their absences. Whether it be off the bench or in the starting lineup, the big man has embraced the opportunity.
He has provided a big boost for this team all season with his stellar scoring and rebounding abilities, this recent stretch of games only amplifying that success. When asked about his recent play with a bigger role to play, Portis gave a lengthy response detailing how he feels he continues improving his game since he came to Milwaukee. Via Bucks.com:
"“I just want to be a complete basketball player. I think my whole life, I’m just trying to focus on scoring the ball and trying to be a good scorer… Being more active on defense and things like that. It’s helped me out a lot to become a better player, a well-rounded player, and not just an offensive guy. I’m just trying to impact the game in different ways, rebounding the basketball at a high level when I’m out there. Being active on defense, not just trying to be a stopper… Those things are stuck with me for me to earn my keeps and earn more time out on the floor.”"
Portis has unquestionably earned the extended minutes, and depending on how long Tucker and Antetokounmpo are sidelined, that playing will only continue to increase. If that is the case, the veteran could go on a tear to finish the regular season. Logging four consecutive double-doubles, a hot streak may have already begun.