AJ Green exited Milwaukee's latest loss against the Philadelphia 76ers due to a shoulder contusion and is set to undergo an MRI. The Bucks, who are shooting a vile 31.6 percent from deep over their last two games, will only struggle to hit those shots even more if Green has to miss time. Even if he doesn't sit out, the poor shooting makes this an excellent time for Gary Trent Jr. to finally arrive.
Bucks need Gary Trent Jr. to finally join the party
For most of the season, Gary Trent Jr. has just... existed. After lighting up the world in the postseason, the Bucks re-signed Trent thinking his shooting and scoring could be difference-makers. Yet, in his 24 games this season, Trent is averaging 9.6 points, his fewest since his sophomore season in 2019-20, while shooting 37.1 percent from deep, his lowest percentage since 2018-19. He's been a non-factor.
Even before Giannis went down with a calf strain and Green suffered this shoulder injury, which they hope is not a long-term issue, the Bucks needed more from Trent. Now, to keep this ship from sinking, the Milwaukee Bucks desperately need him to come to life. If he remains in this slump, in which he fails to make an impact most nights, it will only hold the Bucks back even further.
Part of Trent's struggle could deal with his ever-changing role. After beginning the season as a starter, he has been tossed all over the place, going from reserve to starter often. It's difficult to find a rhythm when a player isn't where they will be most nights. Trent's role could be changing again if Green, the usual starting small forward, has to miss any time.
Even if Green is fine and misses no time, the Milwaukee Bucks still need Trent right now. This team is struggling from deep, and Trent has proven to be one of the most electric shooters in the league on occasion. In five playoff games last season, he averaged 18.8 points while shooting 50 percent from deep on 8.8 tries per game. That version of Trent has been nowhere to be found.
With Giannis Antetokounmpo out for the next couple of weeks, 3-pointers will only be harder to come by for the Bucks. The Greek Freak commands so much attention that shooters tend to be open more often than not. With him off the floor, defenses can lock in on the perimeter and not have to worry about a 7-foot bulldozer making his way to the hoop. It's hurt Milwaukee's offense mightily.
Trent cannot save the Milwaukee Bucks' offense by himself, but he can certainly do his part.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.