Kyle Kuzma starting at power forward for the Milwaukee Bucks this season once felt like a given, but it is no longer that easy to imagine. Coach Taylor Jenkins continues to toy with his rotations, including a surprising start for Kel'el Ware in Kuzma's place in game two. Seemingly motivated by it, Kuzma came out and had a solid showing in the team's third preseason matchup.
Kuzma bounces back in game three
One of the few silver linings from Milwaukee's tough loss to Charlotte was Kuzma's outing. He finished with 12 points on 4-of-8 shooting, four rebounds, two assists, and two steals as he reclaimed his spot in the starting five—at least temporarily. Sure, those aren't needle-tipping numbers, but given that the forward had a 1-point showing in the opener, this was a step in the right direction.
Kuzma played exactly how the Milwaukee Bucks need him to. Offensively, he ran the floor in transition for opportunities at the hoop but also flexed floor spacing capabilities with a couple of smooth shots from distance. Defensively, he kept his hands active and generated a pair of steals. The rebounding was also a nice touch, as the team can never get too much of that.
One performance alone won't guarantee that Kuzma claims the starting forward spot, but it is nice to see him seemingly fired up by the prospect of losing it. Ware himself has been excellent throughout the exhibition games, and if Kuzma had another dud, it would have only increased the former's odds of rolling with the starters. Now, Jenkins has more to ponder.
Two games remain in starting audition
The Milwaukee Bucks have two games left in the NBA Preseason before they have to make a handful of tough calls. Outside of who will be relocated amid the roster logjam, the most pressing question is the starting five. Everything but the power forward position seems set in stone, meaning this should be a thrilling two-game conclusion for Milwaukee.
It wouldn't be surprising if both Kuzma and Ware got one more start. Jenkins might want to get one more look at how each player fits with the other four starts before making his decision. How each of them performs in this stretch could make that final decision easier. With everything Kuzma has on the line this season, including his next contract, he must take this battle personally.
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