Once Milwaukee Bucks players started dropping like flies due to injuries, it was crystal clear that the healthiest players would be getting an increased opportunity down the stretch. Those players would have a chance to showcase their skills and make a case to stick with the franchise long-term. One of those players is Ousmane Dieng, and the Bucks won't need the rest of the season to evaluate him.
Not after what he just did to the Houston Rockets.
Dieng dazzles in Bucks' loss to Rockets
Against the Rockets, Dieng played nearly 45 minutes, tied for a career-high. With only eight players available—seven after Gary Trent Jr. went down—Dieng had to play extended time, and he took the opportunity by the horns. In his 45 minutes of action, the forward put together the best showing of his NBA career.
Offensively, Dieng showed what he could do with the ball in his hands. He shot the ball 31 times and finished with 36 points. Sure, that many shot attempts might not make that feat all that impressive, but it was how he got those points that stood out. Dieng has primarily been a shooter in Milwaukee, but he made just one triple all night in Houston.
Attacking the basket had been a weakness for the forward early on, with him struggling to battle any physical opponents due to his frame. In this one, he attacked the hoop from start to finish, not letting anyone stand in his way as he bulldozed his way for countless tough finishes inside. That's the type of growth that can be a silver lining from this disastrous season.
Elsewhere, he showed off some passing chops with 10 assists. There were glimpses of some sweet passing from Dieng sprinkled in here and there, but this was the true defining moment. Circling back to the physicality, he tallied seven rebounds in this one, staying active down low despite his smaller frame and making an impact in any area this team has struggled mightily in.
All in all, it was an exceptional performance from a player with immense potential.
Bucks should make Dieng's stay in town long-term
Even before this game, it felt like the Milwaukee Bucks needed to keep Ousmane Dieng long-term as he braces for restricted free agency this summer. However, this game was the icing on the cake. For years now, the Bucks have been seeking adequate small forward help, and a possible answer to their needs likely just fell into their lap. Keeping him feels like a no-brainer.
Right now, there is no telling what the financials will look like, but they should work with Dieng to get a deal done swiftly this summer. Whether Giannis Antetokounmpo stays or goes, Dieng fits in as a solid small forward option who is still just 22 years old. This team has found plenty of success with young, overlooked players lately, and they can't afford to let a player like Dieng go.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.