Kyle Kuzma was already enduring significant pressure entering the season with the Milwaukee Bucks, but Nate Ament just turned it up a notch. In Milwaukee's preseason opener against Minnesota, Kuzma struggled mightily to contribute, while Ament was among the biggest winners of the matchup. If this trend continues, Kuzma might soon be leapfrogged in the Bucks' forward rotation.
Ament shines, Kuzma sinks
Now, it must be noted that Ament didn't have a breakout performance. He had eight points and two boards in under 14 minutes. However, the confidence he played with truly stood out, given that he's a raw rookie whom some don't think can contribute steadily for years. For him to score, hunt for rebounds, and play defense as he did was impressive.
Kuzma, on the other hand, was far less impressive. One of three players over 30, he is expected to be one of the tone-setters for this team. Instead, he finished with one point—thanks to a free throw after missing all of his field goals—and five rebounds. Not exactly an awe-inspiring performance from one of the roster's highest-paid players.
If Kuzma wants to continue playing a steady role, he'll have to be much better than this. Of course, it's just one preseason game, but Kuzma has already had his share of duds in a Milwaukee Bucks jersey. If the poor performances keep piling up, the Bucks won't have much to lose if they decide to throw their potential-filled rookie on the court over the expiring veteran.
Kuzma has a lot on the line
This could be the most important year of Kuzma's career. As mentioned, he's on an expiring contract and will be a free agent next summer. It already looks like it will be difficult for him to command a deal near his $20.5 million salary, but if he struggles to find his footing, it might be hard for him to land any kind of contract. If Ament overtakes him in the rotation, it could be a deathblow to Kuzma's future.
The good news for him, though, is that it appears Kuzma will have opportunities to shine. He started in the first preseason game and will likely open the season as the team's starting power forward. The ball is in his court there. If there were ever a time for him to break out and have one of his better years, it's with a Milwaukee Bucks team that is hunting for production anywhere they can get it.
If he fails to produce consistently, Ament will be lurking in the background, and the chatter about him needing to play will only grow louder. Kuzma must use Ament's presence as motivation.
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