Make no mistake about it: Kevin Porter Jr. has proven as of late that he is a legitimate closer for this Milwaukee Bucks team.
His activity on both ends of the floor and perimeter defense is helping make assistant coach Greg Buckner's system work. The trade for KPJ has easily become the biggest acquisition of the season at the deadline for the Milwaukee Bucks and possibly the entire league. There is no doubt that he makes things happen on both ends of the floor and has created a dynamic synergy with his teammates, specifically Giannis Antetokounmpo.
KPJ is more than filling the void left by Damian Lillard
It is no secret that when All-Star point guard Damian Lillard became sidelined indefinitely at the end of March with deep vein thrombosis in his right calf, the Milwaukee Bucks were going to face a significant challenge. Lillard's scoring prowess and playmaking abilities are undeniable and left a major void in the Milwaukee Bucks' lineup, particularly when closing out tight games. In his absence, though, Kevin Porter Jr. has emerged as an unexpected but welcome force.
Porter was acquired by the Bucks earlier this season at the trade deadline for MarJon Beauchamp, and what a steal of a trade it has been by general manager Jon Horst so far. Porter has showcased his versatility on both ends of the floor and a clutch gene in crucial game-winning moments.
He has proven that he has become a reliable option for head coach Doc Rivers, especially when the game is hanging in the balance. Although he doesn't possess the same offensive gravity as Lillard, Porter's multi-faceted game has provided the Milwaukee Bucks with both a different and effective dynamic in close games.
Porter's contributions the past few games without Lillard have have not gone unnoticed and have been undeniable.
He has demonstrated an uncanny ability to score in numerous ways, such as attacking the basket and being aggressive, knocking down clutch and timely 3-point shots and getting to the free throw line and hitting them.
His playmaking as of late has also been a key factor, as he has shown a knack for finding open teammates in critical situations while at the same time keeping the offense flowing and preventing it from stagnating in vital pressure-cooker moments, which is something Milwaukee Bucks fans have become all too familiar with this season.
KPJ has been providing much needed bench scoring
The impact that Porter made in Milwaukee's remarkable comeback victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves definitely ignited the team.
While the Bucks were down by 24 points with just over 10 minutes left in the fourth quarter, they mounted an improbable and unprecedented rally by winning 110-103. Porter was instrumental in the historic comeback victory, scoring 21 points off the bench, including 12 points in the fourth quarter. His handsy perimeter defense also resulted in him having five steals in the game. Not only did he provide energy, intensity and scoring off the bench, but he even woke up and ignited the Fiserv Forum crowd after a tangle with Rudy Gobert.
Days ago against the Miami Heat, Porter put up some gaudy numbers with an impressive 24 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists. He absolutely showcased his ability to impact the game in multiple facets. He followed up the overtime victory against the Heat with another solid performance against the New Orleans Pelicans, which further solidified his role as a key contributor in Lillard's absence.
Kevin Porter Jr.'s emergence is crucial for the Milwaukee Bucks
The different dimension that Porter brings makes his emergence so crucial for the success of the Milwaukee Bucks.
Damian Lillard is primarily an offensive force, but Porter offers a blend of scoring, rebounding and playmaking. He also quite often injects a dose of unpredictability and athleticism into the Bucks' late-game execution, which, to be honest, has been lacking far too often with Damian Lillard.
He provides the defensive intensity that Lillard doesn't, as well. This was evidenced by his career high five steals against the Timberwolves. He also offered valuable possessions and disrupted Minnesota's rhythm in crunch time late in the fourth quarter.
While nobody can truly replace a player of Damian Lillard's caliber, Porter's clutch shot-making and leadership are invaluable. His recent performances offer a glimmer of hope and are a testament to the Milwaukee Bucks' depth. He has stepped up when his team has needed him most, providing crucial contributions in closing out games and keeping the Bucks competitive, as they have won five straight games.
This is vital as the Milwaukee Bucks aim to remain competitive as they navigate the final three games of the regular season and look ahead to the playoffs.
As the Milwaukee Bucks await updates on Lillard's potential return in the playoffs, they can sure take solace in knowing that they have found a capable and determined player in Kevin Porter Jr. He is proving that he can be a significant factor in their pursuit of a championship, even in the absence of a superstar. Porter's recent performances suggest that he's not only filling a void, but he's carving out an extremely important role for himself within the team.