Bucks’ potential breakout candidate falling short of early expectations

When the Milwaukee Bucks drafted Andre Jackson Jr. 36th overall out of UConn in 2023, hopes were high that he could pan out to be the energetic, do-it-all perimeter stopper that the team had been in need of for years.

There was a lot of cause for optimism when it came to Jackson at the time. He could defend, rebound the basketball and make plays off pushing the pace in transition. In college, he was a three-year starter and averaged a Draymond Green-esque stat line of 6.7 points, 4.7 assists and 6.2 rebounds per game in his final season.

As the Milwaukee Bucks gear up for the 2024-25 NBA season, Jackson was initially viewed as a potential breakout candidate after his solid showing in the team's playoff series against the Indiana Pacers. However, his performance in the NBA Summer League and the preseason has raised concerns, leaving fans and analysts questioning whether he can live up to expectations.

Despite his athletic ability and generally competent defense on the perimeter, consistency has almost completely eluded Jackson thus far. The early returns aren't looking good, and his inability to convert on open looks and make plays for teammates has been a significant factor in his lackluster performance.

Bucks' Andre Jackson Jr. has taken a sizable step back lately

In the 2024 NBA Summer League, Jackson showcased flashes of his athleticism and skill but ultimately struggled to make a significant impact. Over five games, he averaged a paltry 4.3 points, 2.3 rebounds and two assists per game, shooting 50 percent from the field but a dismal 14.3 from 3-point range.

Through 27 minutes played in two preseason games so far, Jackson has put up four points, made only two field goals out of 11 attempts, made none of his threes and has registered a plus/minus of -14. In case it wasn't clear, these numbers are extremely concerning for someone who was initially expected to be a key contributor on both ends of the floor.

He played 18 minutes in the loss to Detroit, where he was a net -27.2. His minutes were halved against the Los Angeles Lakers, to no improvement. Again, Jackson was a net -27.3 in that one.

As mentioned, the Bucks are banking on Jackson's potential as a versatile guard with size who could contribute defensively while developing, at the very least, a serviceable offensive game that could complement the team's core starters. Jackson's college career at UConn showcased his ability to impact games with athletic plays and defensive tenacity, but those traits have yet to translate effectively and consistently to the professional level.

"I'm just trying to get reps wherever I can, honestly. Whether it's with the older guys, younger guys, I think the biggest thing is just understanding the concepts that we're doing on offense and defense and just trying to execute that to the best of my ability. It doesn't matter which group I'm playing with in practice. I know that over the course of time, I'll work myself to where I want to be," Jackson told reporters in a post-shootaround presser on October 10.

With key players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard and Khris Middleton already leading the team, Jackson's role is expected to be that of a complementary player who can step in when needed. However, if he continues to struggle with shooting, finishing and decision-making, his minutes may just dwindle as head coach Doc Rivers looks to more reliable options off the bench.

The warning signs of a sophomore slump are there, and it's looking like Milwaukee Bucks fans may have to manage their expectations for the second-year forward quite a bit.

It's still incredibly early, of course, but as training camp progresses and the regular season looms closer, Jackson Jr.'s performance will be closely monitored. Milwaukee will need him to find his rhythm quickly. Otherwise, what once seemed like a promising breakout opportunity may turn into another missed chance for both player and team.

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