Though some battles are still going on, the Milwaukee Bucks' rotation is largely taking shape through the first three preseason games. Who fits where is becoming clearer, and it's growing more likely that a potential-filled player might not be in the cards. With a minimal role in preseason play, newcomer Kasparas Jakucionis may have to wait his turn in Taylor Jenkins' rotation.
Jakucionis hasn't played much for Bucks
Following the first three games, Jakucionis has totaled only 17.6 minutes. That is 16th on the team, trailing Kam Jones and Cormac Ryan (two-way players), Bogoljub Markovic (a raw rookie), and Jake Stephens (Exhibit 10 player). With that, it feels safe to say that the soon to be sophomore isn't in the current rotation plans.
Really, it's not too surprising. For months, one of the most prominent talking points surrounding the Milwaukee Bucks has been their surplus of guards. Jakucionis, still young, potentially leapfrogging Ryan Rollins, Tyler Herro, Kevin Porter Jr., Gary Trent Jr., or AJ Green, felt like a long shot due to their seniority and/or contract status, and it has indeed been the case.
It is somewhat surprising, though, that the youngster hasn't played more than Caris LeVert, who has been on the floor for 28.8 minutes. LeVert, one of three players on the team over 30, almost certainly isn't in the team's long-term plans, so him playing over the up-and-comer is surprising. Perhaps the Bucks are trying to showcase him for a trade before roster cuts arrive, but still.
Jakucionis must embrace the situation
His time will come. Perhaps the Milwaukee Bucks will make a move or two to shed a guard during the NBA season. Rollins, Herro, and Porter can all hit NBA Free Agency next summer, and unless the team is certain it will dish out big money to all three, perhaps they aim to move one. That would open a door to more playing time for Jakucionis.
For now, though, it wouldn't be surprising if Jakucionis spent some time in the G League. The Bucks have used the Wisconsin Herd, their G League affiliate, as a development tool over the years, letting their young guys see a more prominent role down there to fuel their development. They could do the same with Jakucionis to sharpen him before his NBA opportunity arrives.
The guard can absolutely help this team. His sweet passing and pristine shooting are undeniable, and he has barely scratched the surface of his potential. It's hard to say when he will get to show the NBA world, but he must stay ready. His time is surely coming.
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