There have been a lot of questions regarding how the Milwaukee Bucks might replenish their depth in the frontcourt if they move Bobby Portis and Kyle Kuzma at the NBA Trade Deadline. With a stellar game in his last G League appearance, two-way big man Pete Nance may have just given the Bucks a hint at the answer.
Pete Nance just dazzled with Milwaukee Bucks G League squad
In the Wisconsin Herd's win over the Grand Rapids Gold, Pete Nance was fantastic. In just 34 minutes, he poured in 42 points, five rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one block. Obviously, the scoring is what jumps off the page the most, and rightfully so, as the forward shot an impressive 16-of-19 from the floor, including 5-of-7 from downtown.
The NBA is a different beast from the G League, but Nance seems like a player who could deserve a look at the next level. With so much trade chatter surrounding the Milwaukee Bucks and Kyle Kuzma and Bobby Portis, two players seemingly destined to be on the move, there's a good chance this team will need some bodies in the frontcourt, paving the way for Nance to earn an opportunity.
Nance has the tools to succeed at this level. At 6-foot-9, he's between a power forward and center but has the versatility to play both. He'd also fit right in with Milwaukee's 3-point-heavy scheme, as he's shooting over 40 percent from distance in the G League this season. Rather than bringing in someone externally, this could be a great opportunity to promote some young in-house talent.
It wouldn't be the first time that the Milwaukee Bucks have had a two-way player rise to the occasion and carve out a role for themselves. Last season, Ryan Rollins, who was on a two-way deal, overtook veteran guard Delon Wright as the backup point guard. There's no telling if Nance could capitalize in a similar way, but if Bobby Portis and Kyle Kuzma are gone, it's a possibility.
It all hinges on how the Milwaukee Bucks proceed over the next few weeks. Are Bobby Portis and Kyle Kuzma in the long-term plans? All of the trade chatter suggests they are not, but nothing is quite set in stone just yet. If Pete Nance keeps putting together performances like he did in his latest showing, perhaps it could make Milwaukee's next decision easier.
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