It's only been two games. It's only been two games. It's only been two games. Still, there is no denying how impressive Kel'el Ware has looked for the Milwaukee Bucks in the preseason. The center, coming to Milwaukee in the blockbuster Giannis Antetokounmpo trade, has turned heads with his production and looks poised for a breakout if he keeps this up.
Ware already making preseason headlines
Through two games, Ware is Milwaukee's current leading scorer and rebounder, averaging 16 points and 12 boards per game. He's been a force in both regards, attacking the hoop offensively while also always lurking around it for the opportunity to grab a board.
Ware currently leads preseason players in rebounds per game, with Golden State's Yaxel Lendeborg sitting second with just nine per game. For a Bucks team that was flat-out terrible at rebounding the ball last season, this has been a breath of fresh air, especially when Taylor Jenkins has paired the big man with Jericho Sims, as the two can dominate the glass together.
Offensively, Ware still has another level to reach, as he's shooting just 2-of-10 on his 3-point attempts thus far. Considering he shot just under 40 percent from beyond the arc last season, there is plenty of reason for optimism. If he can get those to drop while also continuing his relentless attacking right at the rim, his scoring numbers will reach new heights.
Other former Heat players off to slow starts
It's not that they've been terrible, but the other three players the Milwaukee Bucks landed from Miami in the Giannis deal have been quiet.
Tyler Herro, the player many expect to take over as Milwaukee's top option this season, is averaging a mere 12 points and three assists. Jaime Jaquez Jr., despite being up for an extension before the new season, has struggled to put his best foot forward as well. Kasparas Jakucionis flexed potential in the team's win over OKC, but he didn't even play in the first outing against Minnesota.
It's early; there is still plenty of basketball left on the schedule. Things could change in an instant, but at the moment, there is no denying that Ware has been the standout of the preseason. If he can keep up this level of production, he could soon be regarded as the best player Milwaukee landed in the deal for their former star.
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