The new era of the Milwaukee Bucks got underway on Wednesday with a defeat at the hands of the Washington Wizards. One of the new faces that stood out was Jaime Jaquez Jr. in his debut. There were questions about whether the Sixth Man of the Year runner-up would start or not, but his 22-point performance immediately vindicated the Bucks' decision to promote him to the starting lineup.
Jaquez impresses in Bucks season opener
A new-look roster showed plenty of promise and things to work on, including a tough fourth quarter that saw the Wizards go on a 21-4 run to take control of the game. Jaquez started just one game for the Heat last season but proved he belongs in this Milwaukee starting lineup, doing his bid for an extension a world of good.
His style is unique as a small forward, as he plays a funky inverted role, driving to the basket with his physicality, allowing him to create space for himself in the paint. He shot an efficient 8-of-12 (66.7 percent) from the field, and despite not being a lights-out shooter, he shot 1-of-3 (33.3 percent) from deep, which is average for him; if he can make one per game on limited attempts, the Bucks will take that.
Jaquez also helped crash the glass, leading the team with seven rebounds and adding two assists to his name. He had a major impact for the Bucks on both sides of the floor, as shown by Jericho Sims being the only other player to have a +/- that wasn't negative, and Sims played just two minutes.
New faces shine as old faces struggle
The Giannis trade brought in a plethora of guys from Miami, who all played their part in Washington. Tyler Herro led the way with an efficient 24 points and nine rebounds. Kasparas Jakucionis looked like a real piece for the future of the backcourt with 15 points off the bench. Kel'el Ware had a couple of nice moments too before fouling out.
One big question surrounding the Bucks' starting five was whether Taylor Jenkins would go with Jaquez, Kyle Kuzma, or both. The latter had a difficult night, scoring just five points on 22.2 percent from the field and struggling to make his presence felt. Jenkins will still play around with lineups and rotations as the season goes on, but it was clear which of the two wings will be more impactful for this team.
We still don't know how this Bucks team will look at the end of the season, but Jaquez certainly showed what he can bring to this team and did his extension talks no harm. The small forward spot is well and truly his, and the Bucks are already vindicated for promoting him to the starting five.
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