How the Milwaukee Bucks’ current bench compares to the 2021-22 bench
The Milwaukee Bucks have bolstered their roster in recent weeks by adding Jae Crowder via a trade with the Brooklyn Nets and bringing in Goran Dragic on a deal till the end of the season. Adding more to the bench was key for Head Coach Mike Budenholzer when it comes to bettering their 2021-22 playoff exit to the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
With the depth chart updated, we take a look at how the current Bucks’ bench compares to the 2021-22 bench.
How the current Milwaukee Bucks bench compares to the 2021-22 bench: Guards
Guard play has been essential to the success of the Bucks this season. The progression of Jevon Carter has impressed everyone and seen him move to a more prominent role in the team, starting 33 games of the current season compared to just the two in the 2021-22 season.
Carter brings great energy when entering the game, averaging a steal per game and according to NBA.com, he contributes to 30.2 percent of all of the Bucks’ steals this season. A backcourt duo of Jrue Holiday and Carter is one of the best defensive duos in the league, and heading down the stretch and in the playoffs, will be one that is utilized by Budenholzer.
When George Hill was traded to the Indiana Pacers as part of the Crowder deal, it was clear that a veteran Point Guard was needed to fill the void and Dragic does just that. Taking a look at Hill’s stats from last season and comparing them to Dragic this season, Dragic is averaging 6.4 points per game compared to Hill’s 6.2 from last season. Dragic also averaged eight fewer minutes but 2.7 assists to Hill’s 2.2. Having an extra facilitator on the bench is key to any side looking to make a charge at the NBA title and Dragic does just this.
A.J. Green is on a two-way deal and will provide shooting down the stretch but will also allow other players to rest and stay fresh for the postseason. He has provided great shooting and leads the team in 3-point percentage, only adding to his case for tying down a standard contract in the off-season. As a two-way player, he is not eligible to play in the playoffs.
The other change at guard is that Argentinian Luca Vildoza is no longer on the team, having signed prior to the playoffs last season.