After the Milwaukee Bucks fell to the Boston Celtics in seven games last year, it was clear that changes, and retention, needed to take place in order to remain in title contention. One of the biggest areas of concern heading into the off-season was a lack of lineup versatility. Part of the reason for this was injuries, such as multi-time All-Star Khris Middleton, who missed the Celtics series with a knee injury. Without him, the Bucks’ depth and ability to throw out different lineups was severely limited, contributing to the loss.
If there is anything to take away from the past few years’ champions, including the Bucks, is that winning teams have to be able to run out different looks and schemes depending on the situation. The bubble Lakers were able to play big lineups that overwhelmed teams in the paint, as well as downsize to a more perimeter oriented lineup with Anthony Davis at the 5. This year, the Warriors not only had different lineups at their disposal, but rather they also had guys who could play multiple different roles and positions within those lineups.
Over the off-season, the Bucks made it a priority to match this versatility in order to keep up with the rest of the league. With guys returning from injury, entering from the draft, and coming back with something to prove, what are some lineups Coach Bud can utilize to bring another title to Milwaukee?