3 Bucks’ role players whose minutes could increase down the stretch
By Dalton Sell
3 Bucks’ role players whose minutes could increase down the stretch: Joe Ingles
Crowder and Matthews are both likely to see more minutes down the line due to the defense they provide, but that is not the case with Joe Ingles. The veteran forward has never been a strong defender in his career, which may have some scratching their head about his inclusion on this list. Ingles, who is playing a tick over 22.7 minutes per game right now, could see more minutes due to the shot creation and overall offensive versatility he brings to the table.
While he’s been hit or miss at times this season, Ingles has consistently shown flashes of what he can do for this team. He’s a tremendous long-range shooter who can also orchestrate the offense when called upon. The latter is extremely important because it means Ingles can take some of the pressure off of the Big 3 having to carry the load. Of course, the shooting is also important due to Milwaukee’s reliance on perimeter shooting.
Ingles just had the best month of his Bucks tenure, which is another reason to have him on this list, as he’s clicking at the perfect time. In March, he averaged 8.5 points and 3.5 assists while shooting the lights out at 51.9 percent from the floor and 50.8 percent from three. He’s been tremendous, and a player capable of doing that could help in big games. Ingles would find himself targeted on defense, but the Bucks would do what they could to mask that. It would also lessen the blow if the forward can produce significantly for the Bucks offensively.
Keep an eye on these three Milwaukee Bucks role players as the postseason nears.