A season already full of challenges just got a lot more difficult for the Milwaukee Bucks.
Starting point guard Damian Lillard is set to be out indefinitely to deal with a blood clot. Though there is reportedly optimism that Lillard could return this season, per The Athletic, this isn't some calf strain. This is something that could very well end Lillard's season entirely. Lillard's health is the most crucial factor in all of this, of course, so it would be justifiable, but the Bucks must push onward.
One adjustment that could help them stay afloat is by making a starting lineup change.
Kevin Porter Jr. must take Damian Lillard's spot in Bucks' lineup
Since coming to the Bucks via trade, Kevin Porter Jr. has served as a crucial second-unit cog, giving them a hefty dose of offense nightly. Well, with Damian Lillard, one of their few shot creators and an essential piece of the puzzle on offense, set to miss time, the guard's importance just went through the roof.
Porter now must shoulder much more of the offense, as his shot-creating and facilitating abilities will be vital in helping keep the Milwaukee Bucks afloat. One way to get the best out of the guard would be not only to increase his minutes, but to also insert him into the starting lineup in Damian Lillard's place to help the Bucks start games with that spark in the fold.
Porter could take significant pressure off of Giannis Antetokounmpo, who will now have to tackle a good amount of the orchestration of Milwaukee's offense nightly.
Ryan Rollins has been the starting point guard over the last three games, but he hasn't been able to find his footing, averaging six points on 27.8 percent shooting. He can absolutely help the Bucks in Lillard's absence, but the main guard should be Porter, as Rollins doesn't possess the same type of Lillard-esque shot creation this offense needs. He'd be better suited to slide into the backup role.
In the past, Kevin Porter Jr. has flexed potential as a starting NBA guard. In two seasons from 2021 to 2023, he averaged 17.3 points and six assists per contest. If he can somehow get back to that form, it would absolutely help the Milwaukee Bucks as they try to navigate this difficult situation, especially as the NBA Playoffs inch closer. That starts with more minutes.
Kevin Porter Jr. may now be the Bucks' ultimate X-factor for the rest of the season.
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