Kyle Kuzma has emerged in the last two games as a critical piece for the Bucks, with back-to-back efficient scoring performances. He had 15 points in just 16 minutes Monday night after a fourth quarter heater in the game before. The initial trade for Kuzma was yet another risky move by the Milwaukee Bucks, but it’s finally starting to pay off.
Kuzma is bringing a rare element to the Bucks
Kuzma has mainly come off the bench this season but is making the most of that role rather than getting discouraged. Unlike last season, Kuz has played within the flow of the team’s offense and been a strong defender. Although his shot isn’t always falling, he provides valuable bench offense because he can either score in the flow of team ball movement or create his own shot in isolation.
Against the Pacers, he had a quick and efficient 15 points. He displayed his offensive versatility and got buckets as an offensive rebounder, isolation scorer, and spot-up threat. Kuzma was able to use his combination of size and shooting ability to create and exploit mismatches.
The Bucks' offense has often stalled this season without Giannis Antetokounmpo on the floor, but Kuzma can help keep it afloat. If he can continue scoring at similar rates to his last two games, he will give the team an unexpected boost. Unselfish screening and spacing on his part also make the game easier for the Milwaukee Bucks guards.
Defensively, Kuzma has looked much improved this season as well. He’s been particularly good in the post against larger power forwards. This makes Kuzma the perfect piece to help the Bucks match up with the favorites in their conference.
The East has seen an influx of double-big lineups, including the Knicks and Cavs. Kuzma’s defensive emergence gives the Bucks valuable depth to throw at All-Star forwards like Karl-Anthony Towns and Evan Mobley. He can help give Giannis an additional breather or just give the Bucks a different look to throw off opponents.
Overall, Kuzma has definitely made a strong argument for more minutes. He’s arguably been the second-best Buck in the last two games behind Giannis and should be one of the first guys off the bench. His versatility on both ends allows him to fit into most lineups for the Bucks.
And if the Bucks decide to pivot in a different direction, Kuzma is also increasing his trade value. He is proving himself as a winning player once again. The Bucks can use his newfound appeal to net a star with higher top-end talent. This is especially applicable for teams with too many stars and not enough winning role players, such as the Kings and DeMar DeRozan.