The Milwaukee Bucks had so much uncertainty at small forward entering last season, but that won't be a problem this year. Based on their game plan during a 3-1 preseason slate, the Bucks plan to use one of AJ Green or Gary Trent Jr. at the starting small forward spot, while Taurean Prince and recent signee Amir Coffey will provide support off the bench.
Bucks know what they want to do at small forward
After undergoing offseason surgery on both ankles last summer, Khris Middleton was initially set to be ready for the start of the regular season. However, the season started, and Middleton was not in the lineup, forcing the Milwaukee Bucks to use Taurean Prince as the starter. It was supposed to be a temporary fix, but Middleton's absences continued piling up.
Finally, Middleton made his season debut on December 6. However, even then, it was a slow climb for the former All-Star, who was kept on a tight leash minutes-wise. While everyone thought he would be back in the starting lineup, Middleton only started in seven of his 23 games before being traded away. Prince, who came to Milwaukee thinking he'd be a backup, started in 73 regular season games.
Not knowing who would be in the lineup on a game-by-game basis was an obstacle for the Milwaukee Bucks and played into their dysfunction. Now, with everyone healthy and a clear rotation in mind with the regular season on the horizon, the Bucks have much more clarity at the small forward spot, and it will help them hit the ground running.
What stands out about this new small forward rotation is the versatility and 3-point shooting that all of these players possess. All four players shot above 40 percent from downtown last season and will be essential in Milwaukee's emphasis on perimeter shooting. All will benefit from the sheer number of open looks they will get courtesy of Giannis Antetokounmpo's passing ability.
If there is a question mark, it is on the defensive end. While Green and Trent have shown that they are solid defenders, one of them will be asked to guard much taller players if they are starting at the small forward spot. Green is 6-foot-4, and Trent is 6-foot-5. Both will be asked to take on more defensive responsibility than ever before, and they must answer the call.
Above all else, it will be nice to have some clarity at the position.
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