Bucks coach praises youngster's preseason showing, but it's not who you'd expect

Throughout the Milwaukee Bucks' rocky preseason campaign, where they finished with a 1-3 record, their exhibition campaigns usually hinged on two things: bench scoring and guard play.

The usual Bucks' game followed this formula: Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo start and dominate the competition. Once they're off the floor, the Bucks deploy their young wings, who, in theory, have the firepower to hold their own. Yet, without elite playmaking getting them good looks, the bench unit struggles to generate consistent offense and eventually relinquishes the early lead. Rinse and repeat in the next game.

One name has emerged from the end of the bench to catch the attention of fans and analysts alike: Ryan Rollins. This 22-year-old guard from Toledo not only outperformed expectations during the preseason but also garnered praise from none other than Doc Rivers, a coaching veteran known for his discerning eye for talent.

At his post-game press conference after the fourth and final exhibition contest, Rivers did not hold back his praise.

"Ryan's been great. You know, especially of all the guys, when he plays with better players, he's even better. He's tough, he can defend, can really shoot the ball. I think he's got a big upside."

With such high praise, it's time to delve into what makes Ryan Rollins a standout on a crowded roster.

Rollins has separated himself from Milwaukee's other youngsters

In the preseason games, Rollins showcased his versatility and skill set that set him apart from other, more established young bench players like MarJon Beauchamp and AJ Green.

In just three games and 10.4 minutes per game, he averaged 5.3 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.7 assists while shooting an impressive 50 percent from 3-point range.

Rollins’ performance stands out not just in numbers but also in his impact on the game flow when he’s on the court. His defensive tenacity makes him a valuable asset against opposing teams, allowing him to guard multiple positions effectively. His ability to stretch the floor and create shots not only highlights his scoring potential but also complements the Bucks' offensive schemes.

In addition to scoring, Rollins has shown promise as a playmaker, demonstrating a clear ability to facilitate offense and create opportunities for teammates. He doesn't collapse defenses at will with his speed the way AJ Johnson would, but he's able to use good screens to his advantage while making sure the Bucks' offense keeps chugging along.

His vision and decision-making improve when he plays alongside more experienced players, as noted by Doc Rivers' comments about his performance enhancing in better company.

Defensively, Rollins has flashed potential with his quickness and length. He has shown moments of tenacity, contesting shots effectively and contributing on the boards tirelessly. While he needs to work on consistency with his technique, he has demonstrated that he can hold his own against opposing players.

The Bucks have a roster filled with established stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, which can overshadow younger talents. However, Rollins has shown that he can elevate his game when surrounded by elite players, as Rivers pointed out. This adaptability is crucial for any player aiming to carve out a niche in a championship-caliber team, such as the Milwaukee Bucks.

Rollins' journey to this point hasn’t been without challenges; coming from Toledo, he was often overlooked compared to more prominent college programs. Yet, his work ethic and determination have propelled him into discussions about the future of the Milwaukee Bucks' backcourt.

Rollins will have to compete for his minutes on a stacked bench

While Rollins has been a rare bright spot in an otherwise disappointing campaign, it’s essential to consider the competition he faces within the squad. After all, other players like Delon Wright and perhaps even rookie AJ Johnson have the backup point guard position locked down, while Pat Connaughton and AJ Green bring their own strengths to the table at shooting guard.

This only makes it imperative for Rollins to maintain his momentum throughout the regular season. The depth of talent on this team means that every performance counts and consistency will be key for Rollins if he hopes to secure significant playing time. Nothing is set in stone as far as the bench rotation goes thus far, but Rivers will likely make a decision soon on which young player to invest developmental minutes in.

At his media availability after a loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, head coach Doc Rivers also admitted to his demanding approach with young point guards, particularly the high standards he sets for those in leadership roles.

"I was a point guard, and that's probably not great for AJ. [Rajon] Rondo can attest to that: I'm not easy on point guards. Because they run the team. They do."

As we look ahead to the regular season, Ryan Rollins is not just another name on the Bucks’ roster; he represents hope and potential for a bright future in Milwaukee basketball. With Rivers' endorsement ringing in our ears, fans should keep a close eye on this young guard as he continues to develop and potentially become a crucial piece in the Milwaukee Bucks’ championship puzzle.

With each game that passes, Ryan Rollins is proving that sometimes it’s not who you expect that makes a difference—it’s who rises to the occasion when it matters most.

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