Entering the NBA season, there were plenty of question marks regarding who would be the co-star to Giannis Antetokounmpo, but Kevin Porter Jr. has answered the call. When he's been available, Porter has been playing at an All-Star level, shattering prior career highs and helping the Milwaukee Bucks stay afloat. He could be the ideal second fiddle to the Greek Freak.
Porter's All-Star play answers prominent co-star questions
Ankle and meniscus injuries have limited Porter to just seven appearances this season, one of which he played just nine minutes in. After getting his feet wet in his return from surgery against Brooklyn, the guard has been electric over his last five games, posting 25.2 points, eight assists, and 2.4 steals per game while shooting 58.3 percent from the floor. Those are co-star numbers.
Porter's shot creation and pesky defense make him the perfect pairing with Giannis, who is one of the best two-way players in the game. This tandem has the makings to be a dominant pairing, especially in pick and roll situations, where they have been two of the most impactful players this year. It has the potential to be what Bucks fans thought they were getting with Giannis and Damian Lillard.
The problem is that Porter and Antetokounmpo have played just 46 minutes together this season due to injuries. Giannis held things down while Porter rehabbed from meniscus surgery, and Porter is now the lead man while Antetokounmpo heals from a calf strain. Health is preventing the Milwaukee Bucks from unleashing a lethal one-two punch that could salvage their contending hopes.
As Giannis reportedly ponders his future with the Milwaukee Bucks, Porter is giving him something to be excited about if he decides to return. Giannis, from the sidelines, is seeing what Porter is doing on both ends and has to be thinking about how much havoc they could wreak together if they can both get and stay healthy.
Porter's strong play should also alter Milwaukee's thought process as they undoubtedly gear up to scour the market for trades. Several outlets have reported on Milwaukee's interest in Zach LaVine. Prior to Porter's return, trading for a pure bucket-getter was a more justifiable move, but now, they have one. The focus should be on defensive pieces that complement Porter and Antetokounmpo.
With Antetokounmpo likely out for the next handful of weeks, it will be on Porter's shoulders to lead this team as they enter a pivotal stretch.
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