Having re-signed him to a three-year pact this offseason, the Milwaukee Bucks undoubtedly believe in Ousmane Dieng. However, for the time being at least, they won't fully let him off the leash, as there is one obstacle preventing him from seeing the most prominent role of his career: Kyle Kuzma, who is likely to be Milwaukee's starting power forward this coming season.
Kuzma likely to start, Dieng off the bench
Nothing is set in stone just yet, as the Milwaukee Bucks are still putting together their camp roster, but it would be surprising if Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Kyle Kuzma were not the team's starting forwards for the opener. They feel like the appropriate options for Taylor Jenkins to lean on as he returns to coaching in his first season with the Bucks.
In addition to starting Kuzma due to his experience, the Bucks will certainly want to get him on the floor as much as possible to showcase him as a trade chip. At the moment, Kuzma's value isn't too high, with many viewing him as a negative asset. Yet, if he performs well out of the gate this season, perhaps he could change the narrative and become a trade target, especially with his expiring deal.
For Ousmane Dieng, unfortunately, that likely means coming off the bench for the time being in a smaller role.
Dieng will now likely have to wait his turn
While Dieng has played small forward at times in his career, he's best suited to be a four, and that's likely where the Milwaukee Bucks will play him. Unless he flat-out dominates in camp, he will be the backup power forward, and he must embrace it. If a Kuzma deal transpires mid-season, Dieng will reap the rewards and likely earn himself a promotion.
There is a lot to like about what Dieng can bring to this team, whether it's as a backup or a starter. He's still a work in progress, which is unsurprising, considering he's just 23 and played the biggest role of his career last season. With Taylor Jenkins pulling the strings, the Milwaukee Bucks have an excellent player development coach who can aim to bring the best out of the youngster.
For now, the forward must look to build off his excellent showing with the Milwaukee Bucks last year, making strides in every single regard.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.
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