The Milwaukee Bucks posted a series of pictures from the first few days of training camp, and among them featured what could be the team's starting five. Huddled together were Ryan Rollins, Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kyle Kuzma, and Myles Turner. Four were wearing blue jerseys, while it wasn't clear what Herro had on, though it's clear he'll be a starter. This could be good news for Kevin Porter Jr.
Porter can control the bench freely
Sure, everyone wants to be a starter, but a bench role can make a lot more sense at times. That is true for Kevin Porter Jr. While Herro, Rollins, Jaquez, and Kuzma cycle touches in the starting unit, Porter will have much more command of the offense when he checks in, playing with a cache of players who all thrive off the ball.
As the second unit floor general, Porter can take control of the offense both as a scorer and a passer. If he has a favorable matchup, he can go for it. If someone is open, he can find them. He wouldn't have as many opportunities to do so while playing with the starters. This could be the best thing possible for not only his individual production but also making sure the team stays afloat at all times.
Clearly betting on himself after accepting his player option, Porter will be in a great position to put up some of the best numbers of his career. If the guard takes this bench role by the horns and thrives, a hefty new deal could land on his desk next summer, whether it's from the Bucks or someone else.
Youngsters are Porter's only threat
Looking at players who will likely get time off the bench, AJ Green, Ousmane Dieng, Kel'el Ware, and Gary Trent Jr. headline the group. None of those players are reliable full-time ball-handlers, which will be music to Porter's ears. However, the one uncertainty that could throw a wrench into all of this is the growth of Brayden Burries and Kasparas Jakucionis, the team's young guards.
Both guards boast no shortage of potential and could absolutely work their way into the rotation. The question is how soon. With older, more experienced players ahead of them on the backcourt depth chart, it might take time. However, if Taylor Jenkins wants to throw them out there sooner rather than later, they could take some touches away from Porter, lessening his role.
For now, though, he looks poised to command the bench. He should embrace the opportunity.
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