After the recent signing of Thanasis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks are in a tricky position. They now have 17 players for 15 roster spots, including two guys with non-guaranteed contracts. The natural inclination may be to cut the non-guaranteed guys, but that would be a mistake. Among those two is one of their best defenders from last season, who may have a role in the future: Andre Jackson Jr.
Andre Jackson Jr: Important Role to Play
“A-Jax”, as he’s commonly known, is a force on the defensive end. He was the Bucks’ best perimeter stopper last season and showed success with defensive versatility in the regular season. The Bucks are relying on Giannis Antetokounmpo and Myles Turner to shore up the backline next season, but they will still need someone to defend on the perimeter.
Jackson has even proven his worth in the playoffs when he’s received a chance. Last season, he only received five minutes total of playing time in two games against the Pacers, but the season before, he had more opportunities. In the 2024 series against the Pacers, he got 12 minutes per game, and the Milwaukee Bucks held the high-powered Indiana offense to a 106.6 offensive rating.
In those 2024 playoff minutes, Jackson also showcased some offensive ability with smart cutting and playmaking. He is an improving passer with good feel, especially in transition. Jackson not only creates more transition opportunities with his defense, but can also capitalize on them with his high-flying athleticism.
A big tipping point for Jackson’s NBA future will be his outside shooting. Last season, his percentage from three was actually quite good (39.5 percent), but the volume (1.1 attempts per game, or 2.7 per 36 minutes) was not enough to keep defenses honest. Keeping a decent percentage as he ramps up his 3-point volume will elevate him as a two-way player.
In recent seasons, the Milwaukee Bucks defense has fallen significantly after trading away Jrue Holiday. The trade was a worthwhile gamble for Damian Lillard, but it had an unexpectedly large impact on the defense because of Holiday's importance as a perimeter stopper.
The team hoped that keeping Giannis and Brook Lopez to anchor the paint would be enough to maintain a top defense, but it didn’t reach the same heights without someone to shut down opposing guards and wings. Of the current players on the Milwaukee Bucks roster, Jackson has the best shot of fulfilling this role at a level similar to prime Jrue Holiday.
Jackson’s defensive potential is too good for the Bucks to pass up on, and they must ensure that he’s not one of the casualties of this chaotic offseason.