As currently constructed, the Milwaukee Bucks would likely find room for Pete Nance in the rotation. Yet, with HoopsHype's Michael Scotto reporting that the team has explored the possibility of adding both Peyton Watson and Zeke Nnaji to the team, Nance's role is suddenly hanging in the balance. If a sign-and-trade goes through, the forward will be one of the players impacted the most.
Watson, Nnaji could change things mightily
Power forward is one of the biggest unknowns on Milwaukee's roster. Between Nance, Kyle Kuzma, Nate Ament, and Bogoljub Markovic, no one is running away as the favorite to steal the bulk of the opportunities. If Nance, coming off a breakout year, were to impress in camp, he could very well be Taylor Jenkins' go-to at the spot. Yet, if they get those two players, things change.
Both Watson and Nnaji are power forwards. While Nnaji's potential role on the team would be unclear, as he would likely have to prove he belongs in the rotation, Watson would unquestionably be the new starting power forward from day one. His arrival would ramp up the pressure on everyone else on the roster looking to earn opportunities.
Nance might have to fight for his opportunity
Nance proved this past season that he is a good player. With Giannis Antetokounmpo banged up, he thrived in his expanded role, showing that he could score, rebound, shoot, and facilitate the ball at an extremely high level. He might not be a needle-mover, but he's the type of glue guy who would be a valuable piece on any bench across the NBA.
No matter what happens, Nance should have a chip on his shoulder. Last year, he fought tooth and nail to prove he was deserving of an NBA opportunity, working his way up from suiting up in the G League to playing legitimate NBA minutes. Now, his role could be in jeopardy unless he dazzles in training camp and beyond.
Nothing is set in stone just yet. Milwaukee's interest in acquiring Watson is real, but Scotto notes that they have just "considered" absorbing Nnaji's salary to sweeten the deal for Denver. The wheels are not turning on anything just yet. However, everyone currently in that power forward room should be gearing up for what should be an important training camp and preseason.
A little in-house competition before the season starts never hurt anyone.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.
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