Bucks Roundtable: Reflecting on a crazy off-season and what comes next
By Dalton Sell
Lillard aside, which newcomer are you the most excited to see for the Bucks?
Sell: I’ve been the conductor of the Andre Jackson Jr. hype train since he was drafted in round two of this summer’s draft. With Jrue Holiday, Wesley Matthews, and Jevon Carter all heading to new teams this off-season, the Bucks need players to step up on defense, and Jackson, although very inexperienced, has the tools to do so. He’s an incredibly versatile and athletic 6-foot-6 wing who can make a highlight-reel-worthy play on defense whenever he is on the court. If given a chance, he could very well help this Milwaukee team, which has been looking for a reliable wing defender since P.J. Tucker left in 2021. There will be growing pains, but I am very excited to watch the rook.
Moxon: I’m a big fan of all the new additions but Andre Jackson Jr. is really an exciting prospect. The Bucks clearly wanted him by making that trade to go select him and in pre-season so far he has really shown glimpses of what he can be. There may be some struggles to start as with any rookie getting to grips with the NBA. He brings his energy defensively and then starts to hit shots consistently then he will have a huge impact on the season and I can’t wait to see more of him in action.
Luna: It’s only been two preseason games and Summer League so far but I’ve absolutely loved everything I’ve seen from Andre Jackson Jr. I think he can be the kind of lockdown, uptempo playmaker that can thrive next to Giannis and Dame. It’s obviously too early to say this definitivey but I might genuinely believe that there’s a real world scenario where he develops into a playoff performer by the regular season’s end. That’s obviously a lot to ask of a rookie, but we’ve seen versatile glue guys like Haywood Highsmith and Christian Braun make instant playoff contributions in just their first year. The Bucks have never had that in this era, and I believe they finally can with the addition of Jackson.
Ridenour: I can’t wait to see how Malik Beasley develops. He’s truly capable of notching 15-20 a game, which would be such a boost offensively for the Bucks. He adds so much more than what Grayson Allen brought to the table, and Beasley is a true defender who can take on tough assignments. I think Beasley will have a lot of big performances this year, and will be clutch down the stretch in close games.
Valind: Aside from Lillard, I am most excited to see Andre Jackson Jr. this season. I have been pleasantly surprised by Jackson Jr.’s play in the preseason so far. He should be given an opportunity for solid minutes right away because of his potential to be a defensive menace immediately. He’s earned the right to be in the rotation throughout training camp and the preseason. If he becomes a consistent threat on offense, that’ll be a bonus.
Moen: Malik Beasley. Beasley has traits that makes him an intriguing fit in Milwaukee. He’s a solid 42 percent shooter, and he can be a Jrue Holiday replacement of sorts defensively. Beasley averaged 0.8 steals last season and will likely be tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best wing scorer.
Griffith: I am most excited for Malik Beasley. His ability to shoot off the catch is perfect for our offense. His energy has also been great thus far. Securing Beasley on a minimum was a great move.
Schickert: Andre Jackson Jr. I love his athleticism and can’t wait to see his passing prowess in transition.