The Bucks are on a losing streak and seeking any sources of consistent offense on the roster. Without star Giannis Antetokounmpo, the coaching staff has struggled to find ways of putting players in a position to score. Meanwhile, Kyshawn George—a player the Bucks passed on in the 2024 NBA Draft—is thriving for the Wizards as one of the league's most improved players.
Kyshawn George's potential is sky-high
After a mediocre rookie season, George has exploded in his sophomore campaign to the tune of 16 points per game on 49 percent shooting from the field and 44 percent from three. Even in a terrible offensive environment, George has found success as a versatile scorer. His combination of slashing and shooting would greatly benefit the Bucks right now and provide another offensive option to help Ryan Rollins.
Instead, the Bucks have found themselves in a position where they are relying on miraculous events to find young talent. One pick before George was taken, the Bucks selected AJ Johnson 23rd overall. Johnson never received much playing time during his rookie year before being packaged along with Khris Middleton for Kyle Kuzma. Ironically, George and Johnson are now teammates - and it's clear that George is much better.
In fact, there's even an argument that George is already better than Kuzma. Kuzma has disappointed since arriving in Milwaukee to shore up the same position that George plays. Although Kuz has had some great stretches this season, he hasn't been consistent enough to warrant the significant package that was traded for him.
Going back to George, he has become proficient at attacking any openings that the defense gives him. He can clearly knock down an open three, and he can also beat closeouts with strong drives to the rim. Recently, George has even been trusted to handle the ball in pick-and-roll action, where he's steadily improving. He's far from a reliable primary option just yet, but already showing that he can make life easier for his teammates.
In many ways, George is exactly what the Milwaukee Bucks need right now. His shooting and strong off-ball game allow him to thrive alongside a true superstar like Giannis. But he's also capable of stepping up into a bigger role in a pinch, such as the current stretch with Giannis injured. The Bucks only have one player, Ryan Rollins, who has shown this ability otherwise.
The Bucks have been absolutely awful with their draft selections during the Giannis Antetokounmpo era. None of their draft picks from the last five years are playing big minutes for the team right now. Any time a potential Bucks draftee finds success elsewhere, it just rubs extra salt into the wound for Bucks fans and the front office.