Balancing double-edged sword is the next step for Bucks' Andre Jackson Jr.

Whether he's started or come off of the bench, there's no denying that Andre Jackson Jr. has been a shot in the arm for the Milwaukee Bucks this season.

Jackson's impact has primarily come on the defensive end, where he has statistically been one of the most productive players in the NBA these first few contests. Players are shooting just 23-of-70 (32.9 percent) with Jackson as their primary defender, which is by far the best percentage on the Bucks in terms of players who are cemented in the rotation.

While Jackson is making a name for himself defensively, there is another step forward he could take in one area that could fuel his breakout campaign: balancing out his pass-first mentality.

At times, Bucks' Andre Jackson Jr. has been too passive

Dating back to his college days, Jackson has always been an excellent facilitator and orchestrator on the offensive end. He hasn't held primary ball-handling duties much in Milwaukee, but at times, he has flashed his potential in that regard, making a sweet pass an open teammate. In Milwaukee's offense, he has mainly focused on moving the ball and finding teammates over looking for his own shot.

Having a selfless player like this is certainly not a determent, but at times, it feels like Jackson makes just one extra pass when he has an open look for himself. Whether he's right at the hoop or out on the perimeter, there have been several instances where one would like to see Jackson put up the shot rather than seek out a teammate, especially late in the shot clock when things are being rushed.

The Milwaukee Bucks don't need Jackson to be a scoring threat on a nightly basis, as he can make a legitimate impact with his passing. However, maintaining his knack for passing while also taking shots that are good looks for him would certainly help this team. He has the physicality and athleticism to finish at the hoop, and his outside shot has promise, especially from the left corner.

Andre Jackson Jr. has to become some sort of a threat offensively or opposing defenses will simply sag off of him, making things harder for his teammates. For the year, he's averaging just three points on 41.9 percent field goal shooting and 29.4 percent from deep. Other teams currently know that he's likely not looking to shoot or make a play for himself.

Jackson certainly has what it takes to get those numbers up a few ticks and not only elevate himself but also the Milwaukee Bucks.

It's all about balance. Having just turned 23 on Wednesday, the night of Milwaukee's thrilling overtime win over the Detroit Pistons, the wing still has plenty of growing to do. If Jackson can continue to be a defensive ace and excellent passer while also being a tad more aggressive on offense when needed, a breakout season could very well be in the cards for him.

Andre Jackson Jr. should continue to grow more comfortable on both ends as time goes on, learning more and more with each passing basketball game.

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