Gary Trent Jr.'s injury and 4 other takeaways from Bucks' preseason loss to Pistons

Bucks rookies show confidence but not results

There's been much praise floating around for Milwaukee's rookies lately. While everything that's been spoken about AJ Johnson and Tyler Smith may have truth to it, they got off to a tough start in Detroit.

In just a tick under 18 minutes, Johnson had two points, three fouls and two turnovers, shooting just 1-of-8 from the floor. Logging 12 minutes, Smith had five points on 2-of-7 shooting. Though the first preseason game is not the end all be all, it's clear that both players are far from finished products, and no one should have expected them to be; they're 19 years old.

Despite their poor numbers, it was welcoming to see neither youngster lose confidence. Even though he missed his share of shots at the hoop, Johnson continued using his speed and athleticism to get inside and put up a shot. The 6-foot-11 Smith kept firing away with his smooth jump shot. This is the mentality and confidence a rookie must have to survive at this level. It will help them grow.

This was certainly not how the Milwaukee Bucks wanted to kick off their 2024-25 journey, especially with Gary Trent Jr. going down with injury. They will be back on the court Thursday for a matchup with the Los Angeles Lakers, where they will aim to bounce back.

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