Bucks' Doc Rivers has clearly made up his mind regarding crucial backup spot

The competition for minutes may be over, but the real challenge is just beginning.
Memphis Grizzlies v Milwaukee Bucks
Memphis Grizzlies v Milwaukee Bucks | Patrick McDermott/GettyImages

In the ever-evolving chess game of NBA rotations, Doc Rivers has seemingly made a decisive move regarding his rotations for the Milwaukee Bucks.

What was once a competition for bench minutes between Kevin Porter Jr. and Ryan Rollins has now become a one-sided affair. KPJ’s emergence as a reliable sparkplug off the bench has not only earned him consistent minutes but also the trust of his coach.

In the Bucks’ recent 116-110 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers coming out of the All-Star break, KPJ’s performance was a microcosm of why Rivers has made him a fixture in the rotation—and why Rollins has been relegated to the sidelines when the Milwaukee Bucks are healthy for the second time this season.

Doc Rivers has seemingly settled the key second-unit competition

Kevin Porter Jr. didn’t just play well against the Clippers—he dominated in his limited minutes.

In just 15 minutes of action, KPJ dropped 13 points on an extremely efficient 71 percent shooting, including a pair of clutch baskets that helped seal the win. His all-out energy was very obviously what gave the Bucks the much-needed offensive boost to pull out the victory, but his defensive effort was equally impressive. He held his own against the Clippers’ guards, contesting shots and staying active in passing lanes.

This performance was a reminder of why the Bucks traded for KPJ. When he’s locked in, he’s a dynamic scorer and a capable defender who can change the game in an instant. His ability to provide instant offense off the bench is something the Milwaukee Bucks have been missing all season, and it’s clear that Rivers has taken notice.

Ryan Rollins, on the other hand, has seen his role diminish significantly. Once considered a promising young guard with potential, Rollins has struggled to find his footing in the Bucks’ rotation. His lack of consistency on both ends of the floor has made it difficult for Rivers to trust him in meaningful minutes, and KPJ’s emergence has only pushed him further down the depth chart.

While Rollins still has potential, it’s clear that Rivers has made his choice. KPJ’s ability to contribute immediately has made him the preferred option, and Rollins will need to make the most of his limited opportunities if he wants to reclaim a spot in the rotation.

Ryan Rollins is still clearly a fine player, and he's still consistently a steadying presence in his minutes on the floor. But that's just the thing: Porter is, on the other hand, a dominating presence who has been undeniable in his limited minutes. It's tough to admit, but that's just the reality of it: Porter's performances have simply given the coaching staff no other choice but to play him more minutes going forward.

The good news for Rollins is that experience is on his side. Against the Washington Wizards, Rollins started in place of the injured Damian Lillard. He is still more acclimatized within Rivers' system than Porter, and for the time being, that factor clearly still carries a lot of stock for the coaching staff.

Yet, at the end of the day, KPJ’s skill set is a perfect fit for the Bucks’ bench. His ability to create his own shot and score in isolation gives Milwaukee a much-needed offensive weapon, while his defensive effort and intensity make him a valuable two-way player. Considering how much the Bucks' offense drops off when Damian Lillard's three-level scoring takes to the bench, Porter's ability to provide a spark off the bench could be a game-changer for the Milwaukee Bucks.

His performance against the Clippers was a perfect example of what he brings to the table. Whether it’s knocking down mid-range jumpers, attacking the rim or making plays on defense, KPJ has the tools to be a difference-maker. And with Rivers giving him consistent minutes, it’s clear that the Milwaukee Bucks are ready to see what he can do.

Doc Rivers has made his choice, and Kevin Porter Jr. has taken over Ryan Rollins’ role as the Bucks’ primary bench guard. KPJ’s performances lately are a reminder of why the Bucks traded for him, and his consistent minutes suggest that Rivers has become a fan of his.

The competition for minutes may be over, but the real challenge is just beginning. KPJ has earned his spot in the rotation—now it’s up to him to prove he belongs there.

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