Small forward is one of the biggest positions of uncertainty on the Milwaukee Bucks, as a handful of candidates have a case to be a starter this coming season. However, if the Bucks were to land Peyton Watson, the restricted free agent Milwaukee is eyeing in a sign-and-trade as first reported by insider Marc Stein (subscription required), any thought of an impending camp battle would cease.
Current state of Bucks' small forward spot
Milwaukee's current small forward rotation revolves around Jaime Jaquez Jr., Ousmane Dieng, Caris LeVert, and Nate Ament. It feels safe to say that LeVert, who is an aging veteran the Bucks acquired solely for draft capital, and Ament, a raw rookie who has potential but likely needs a year or two, will not be considered for the starting spot. That leaves Jaquez and Dieng.
This is actually a fascinating debate. At this point, Jaquez is certainly the better player, coming off his best year as a pro after having finished second in the Sixth Man of the Year race. Yet, Dieng flashed an undeniable amount of potential with the Bucks last season as well, having finally gotten a chance to shine after rotting on OKC's bench for years.
Letting them go toe to toe in training camp to decide who is the starter would be must-see. Yet, if the Milwaukee Bucks ultimately land Watson, it's no contest.
Watson could be Bucks' small forward answer
It makes plenty of sense that the Milwaukee Bucks are chasing Peyton Watson. Why wouldn't they be hunting for a tall, versatile wing who can play on both sides of the ball while fitting in with their young core after the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade? It's a no-brainer, especially if they want to go all-in on winning next season—which they absolutely should.
If the Milwaukee Bucks don't come away with Watson, which is possible, given that the Nuggets are looking to retain his services while the Clippers and Hawks are also in pursuit, they should not be too beat up, given that they have other solid options. Whether it's Jaquez or Dieng, someone will have an opportunity to take on the full-time starting small forward role, but they will have to earn it.
Before anything becomes set in stone, the Milwaukee Bucks need some clarity on Watson, who is one of the most high profile free agents left, excluding LeBron James.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.
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