Kevin Porter Jr. has been dominant since returning from injury, and it could be exactly what Giannis Antetokounmpo wanted to see. The Greek Freak's potential trade request is well-documented at this point, but Porter could force him to reconsider if he keeps up this level of play. At his current pace, Porter can be the second star that gives Giannis another chance to win in Milwaukee.
Kevin Porter Jr. is looking like a star
Porter has missed most of this season with injury, but performed extremely well in his six games since returning. In that span, he is averaging 22 points and six assists per game while shooting 56 percent from the field, including 62 percent from three. The efficiency has been unbelievable and shows Porter's superstar potential when his game is clicking.
For the Bucks, the current stretch of games with Giannis injured is an important one. It can establish other Bucks as winning players and prove to Giannis that the team is worth his time. After Giannis went down with an injury after three minutes of action last Wednesday, Porter led the Bucks to their most impressive win of the season against the first-place Pistons.
In that game, Porter was completely unstoppable on the way to 30 points. On Saturday, he had another 32 points against the same Pistons team in Detroit. Both of these scoring outbursts came while being defended by Ausar Thompson, one of the league's best wing stoppers. And yet, Porter's unorthodox dribbling ability and shooting touch made him an impossible cover.
For all the talk of Giannis' lack of a second star, the perfect option might have been on his team this whole time. Porter was unfortunately sidelined with various injuries to start the season, but the Bucks were still playing well before Giannis also got hurt. The two have only shared the court for four games this season, but the Bucks are 3-1 in those games.
If Porter can maintain his efficiency alongside Giannis, the Bucks can pose a real threat in the East. No team has stood out as a dominant force in the conference, not even the 19-5 Pistons. With Giannis and another 20-point scorer, the Bucks can compete with any other Eastern team. Porter's game is also perfect next to Giannis because he can knock down open threes at a high clip, while also creating for himself and others when needed.
Giannis has reportedly met with Bucks management to discuss his future, but a formal trade request hasn't been reported yet. For the rest of the team, their priority must be showing Giannis that they can contend alongside him. Kevin Porter Jr. is doing just that by thriving as the primary option in Giannis' absence.