Dennis Smith Jr. is gunning for an NBA comeback. If Cole Anthony keeps on struggling, Smith, who is suiting up for the G League's Wisconsin Herd, just might get a call in the near future. Smith still has to prove himself, as his audition just started, but if he trends up while Anthony's recent slump continues bleeding over into each passing game, the Bucks could set the plan in motion.
Bucks have a potential backup plan down in the G League
Smith never quite lived up to the expectation of being a ninth overall pick, but he still carved out a role for himself wherever he played. It was largely due to his defense, as the guard, despite standing at 6-foot-2, constantly made an impact by guarding players of all shapes and sizes. His bulky 205lb frame certainly helped him do so.
Anthony, meanwhile, despite standing at 6-foot-2 himself, has struggled on that side of the basketball this season. Opposing teams continue to seek out Anthony and hunt him. The Milwaukee Bucks knew they weren't signing a stout defender when they signed Anthony. This has been no surprise. However, they did sign up for someone who could spark the offense, and he has failed in that regard.
Milwaukee's backup point guard has been in a brutal slump, especially over his last four games, where he's averaged six assists, 3.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.3 turnovers per game while shooting just 24 percent from the floor. He just hasn't been great. It's still too early to give up on him, but it's never too soon to keep an eye on in-house talent that could eventually fill in if needed.
The appeal with Smith is clear. With seven years of NBA experience under his belt, Smith knows what it takes to be a reliable backup. In Milwaukee, he'd be tasked with bringing his trademark defense and an adequate amount of playmaking. He and Ryan Rollins could make for a terrific defensive duo in the backcourt that would terrorize opposing guards.
Of course, it's still too early to make any calls. Smith has played one game in the G League, where he posted four points, two steals, and two assists. The Milwaukee Bucks, and any other potential teams with interest, need to see more. For the Bucks, Cole Anthony isn't in the doghouse entirely yet, but the leash is getting shorter.
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