The Milwaukee Bucks haven't been on national television too much this season.
Casual fans understand how good Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard are, so there were no surprises when they both performed well in a nationally televised matchup against the Chicago Bulls. However, one player who did likely catch non-Bucks fans off-guard was AJ Green, the young shooter who put together one of the best games of the season in front of this massive NBA audience.
AJ Green continues to light it up for the Milwaukee Bucks
Having started the season out of the rotation, third-year wing AJ Green has quickly worked his way into the mix for Doc Rivers, and games like this show exactly why.
Offensively, Green checked in and gave the Bucks an immediate spark. The sweet-shooting guard tallied 18 points off the bench, the second-most he has scored this season. He got there by hitting six of his nine shots overall, including going 5-of-7 from deep. Even with a hand in his face, Green consistently buried triples to give this team a needed second-unit spark on offense.
While perimeter shooting has always been Green's bread and butter, one area the young guard is truly making a name for himself in this season is his individual defense. As Damian Lillard pointed out, while Green may not look like a defensive ace, he certainly plays like one. He makes up for what he lacks in athleticism with physicality and hustle, using his sturdy 200-pound frame to take on tough matchups.
Stat-wise, Green finished with two rebounds, two steals, a block and an assist to go with his 18 points against the Chicago Bulls, showcasing his all-around impact.
After this game, non-Milwaukee Bucks fans are going to have a much better idea of what AJ Green brings to the table when he steps onto the court. Due to his strong two-way play, the undrafted guard has cemented his place in the rotation, and with the team desperately needing a youthful spark, it comes at a perfect time. AJ Green may quickly become a household name beyond just Bucks fans.
Green's contributions helped the Milwaukee Bucks secure a 122-106 victory over the Chicago Bulls, moving to 4-1 over their past five contests. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the way with 41 points, while Damian Lillard chipped in with 20 points and 10 assists. The Bucks look like a much better team than they did to start the year, and AJ Green's welcoming emergence has played a significant part in that.
The young shooting guard's importance may only continue to grow as the season progresses, and if he keeps playing like this, he will not be a "secret" weapon anymore.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.