Kyle Kuzma's time with the Milwaukee Bucks has been criticized mightily, largely due to him having a poor showing in the NBA Playoffs. While many thought he'd be the first to go this summer, the Bucks seem content with bringing him back. In fact, they think the continuity could help him be better in his first full year in Milwaukee. That's what general manager Jon Horst told The Athletic's Eric Nehm in a recent sit-down interview (subscription required).
Milwaukee Bucks fans can only hope he's right. If not, it could be disastrous for this franchise.
Bucks banking on continuity fueling Kuzma
Horst's thought process does have some validity. Last season, Kuzma was sent from Washington to Milwaukee and was given little to no time to adjust to a brand-new role on a team with championship aspirations, a situation he hadn't experienced in years. Playing in a new system with new teammates, Kuzma was thrown into the fire from day one, and it was simply too much. Playing through injury in the NBA Playoffs didn't help.
The hope now is that having an entire summer to prepare can help him. He will have a better connection with the coaching staff, and he should get in a few workouts with teammates. Training camp is coming up, and it will be great for him to get on the court with everyone. After having very little chemistry with anyone last year, he must build it before the season this year.
Kuzma has the tools to help this team. He's a stout defender who can be Milwaukee's versatile wing matchup when called upon. The scoring and overall decision-making on offense are shaky, but if the Bucks can reel him in and get him to play as a complementary piece, just like his Laker days, the best in Kuzma might get brought out.
These are big ifs, but the potential is there. The Milwaukee Bucks clearly believe in Kyle Kuzma, and they need him to circle back into contention. After a rough first few months, the forward now has a golden opportunity to dig his name out of the mud. After years in Washington, he yearned for the chance to compete again, and he now has it. Time to hold up his end of the bargain.
Milwaukee's biggest X-factor outside of health next season is Kyle Kuzma. He's the player who can swing a game - or a series - at any given moment.
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