Ahead of Game 3 in Wisconsin, the Milwaukee Bucks find themselves down two games to the rival Indiana Pacers and desperately needing a win.
There are plenty of factors that will determine Friday night's Game 3, including Doc Rivers' changes, Damian Lillard's health and Milwaukee's defensive effort, but one of the biggest X-factors will be the performance of Kevin Porter Jr. The young guard has been a dud in the first two games, averaging 10.5 points while shooting a mere 37.5 percent from the floor to go with 1.5 turnovers and two fouls. The Milwaukee Bucks need more production from their prized NBA Trade Deadline acquisition.
KPJ can be a game-changer for the Milwaukee Bucks
Porter showed his value to Milwaukee during their final eight games of the regular season, where the guard averaged 16.9 points, the second-most on the team, 5.6 rebounds, 5.1 assists and two steals per game while shooting 52.6 percent from the floor and 40 percent from deep. The youngster was beyond impressive in all aspects, but that player is nowhere to be found in this series thus far.
In the first two playoff games of his career, Porter certainly looks a bit rattled. He hasn't played with the same level of confidence that took his game to a new level to close the regular season. Perhaps playing back at Fiserv Forum in front of the home crowd could help calm those nerves and get him back to performing with the utmost confidence.
The Milwaukee Bucks need him, as Porter can make game-changing plays in the blink of an eye with his quick hands that lead to transition opportunities, tough shot-making to alleviate pressure off of the other stars and sweet passing ability. If the Kevin Porter Jr. who helped the Bucks secure eight consecutive wins to close the regular season shows up, Milwaukee's Game 3 odds will skyrocket.
A big night from Porter could also go a long way with Damian Lillard still working his way back into his usual form after missing around a month. In fact, a big night from anyone not named Damian Lillard or Giannis Antetokounmpo would go a long way. The supporting cast needs to step up after a woeful start to the series, as the two stars alone, especially one coming off an absence, cannot do it alone.
All eyes will be on Kevin Porter Jr. as he looks to rewrite the narrative regarding his playoff woes.
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