While Kevin Porter Jr. faces the pressure of a crowded Bucks backcourt rotation, he’s also doing himself no favors with his preseason performances so far. Through two games, Porter is averaging just 6.5 points and 3 assists per game while shooting 17% from the field and missing all his threes.
The preseason isn’t always an exact reflection of how the regular season rotation will shake out. But in the case of a deep and uncertain team like the Bucks, preseason roles are an important preview. Given Porter’s poor play along with some promising signs from Ryan Rollins and Tyler Herro, Porter is solidifying his spot as the first guard off the bench rather than a starter.
The Bucks have found a spot for Porter
Last season, Porter started in 36 of his 38 appearances. He struggled with inconsistency and obviously with injury, but he was still good enough to start over Milwaukee's other guard options. That changed with all the guards that arrived through offseason moves this summer for the Bucks.
Now Porter is clearly a third wheel behind Rollins and Herro. That might be the best for Porter too, since his weaknesses still hold him back greatly as a starter. Coming off the bench, Porter should have less pressure from the best defenders and also more opportunity to play his optimal style with the ball in his hands.
A sixth man role doesn’t have to be an NBA banishment if a player embraces it well. Porter can rehab his league-wide value by excelling in his new role, even with the ego hit of not being named a starter. He’s slated to be an unrestricted free agent next summer and needs all the help he can get to earn a big contract.
Porter needs to accept the role too
In his first few NBA seasons, Porter was known to be a hothead. His attitude problems contributed to bouncing around three different NBA teams and a stint in Greece from 2019 to 2025. But hopefully those days are now past him at age 26.
Despite all his talent as a flashy ball handler and tough shot maker (when he has it going), Porter’s overall stat line from last season was disappointing. His shot selection left a lot to be desired, as shown by his 47% shooting from the field and 32% from three. He was also very turnover-prone, coughing the ball up 2.9 times per contest.
The best step for Porter this season will be to take a step back and reel in the wilder parts of his game. In a smaller role, he can demonstrate more control and show the poise that teams expect from a veteran guard. Getting benched could very well be a blessing in disguise for him.
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