It hasn't taken long at all for Kevin Porter Jr. to make a strong impression with the Milwaukee Bucks.
Since coming over at the NBA Trade Deadline, Porter has wasted no time making an impact on this Milwaukee team, helping them mightily. During his four games with the franchise, Porter has put up numbers consisting of 9.5 points, three rebounds, three assists and 1.5 steals per game. He's been essential off the bench, and his teammates are taking notice of the impact he can have.
Giannis loves playing with Milwaukee Bucks newcomer Kevin Porter Jr.
Following the Milwaukee Bucks' close win over the Washington Wizards, Giannis Antetokounmpo was asked about playing with Porter, and the Greek Freak gushed over him.
"He's nice. I'm not even going to lie to you. I feel like he's a steal. He's nice. The guy is really nice. Defensively, he plays hard. I believe he's one of those players that he's just going to feel wanted... He wants to be around a team that trusts him, that trusts his decision-making. He's been incredible these past two games I've played with him.
His pace is incredible. He's able to get to his spot, create for others. Defensively, he's so good, knows how to use his hands and his body. I'm not even going to lie to you, I love playing with him... You know how you have the steal of the draft? We got a steal. That's a steal for sure."
Giannis isn't just being a good teammate here. Kevin Porter Jr. has indeed showcased all of this since his arrival in Milwaukee, and it's been a shot in the arm off the bench.
What has stood out the most has been the energy and athleticism. He's had a handful of highlight plays already, including a thunderous dunk through traffic and a handful of tough pull-up jumpers. Having a shifty guard who can create shots and run in transition takes pressure off of Milwaukee's other stars, so it's no wonder Giannis Antetokounmpo is already appreciative of him.
As for the "steal" Giannis referenced, he is talking about the Milwaukee Bucks getting Porter at the trade deadline in exchange for MarJon Beauchamp. With all due respect to Beauchamp, he is not in the same tier as Porter. Swapping them at the deadline straight up was always a win for the Bucks from a basketball perspective, and the on-court results are backing it up.
Outside of Giannis, the Milwaukee Bucks haven't employed many athletic players in recent memory, but they now have several in town after their trade deadline moves, including Porter, Kyle Kuzma and Jericho Sims. These changes are already paying major dividends for the Bucks, as they can finally combat other young, athletic teams across the NBA.
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