Bobby Portis - Win Sixth Man of the Year
Bobby Portis has finished third in the Sixth Man of the Year race in back-to-back seasons. If Portis provides his trademark scoring, rebounding, shooting and hustle whenever he hits the court while helping the Milwaukee Bucks win basketball games, this could be the year he finally breaks through and claims the award for himself. They need him to be an impactful sixth man to reach their top goal.
Gary Trent Jr. - Become a reliable defender
As the likely fifth starter, Gary Trent Jr. will be asked to take on challenging matchups defensively to alleviate pressure off of Damian Lillard. Trent has never been known for his defense, so this will be a new role for him. If he can indeed embrace this opportunity and become a reliable defender in the backcourt, he could be the perfect fifth starter and complementary piece to Damian Lillard.
Brook Lopez - Win Defensive Player of the Year
Brook Lopez flirted with Defensive Player of the Year recognition in 2022-23, having finished second in the running. This season, he should aim to take it home, as that would mean the Milwaukee Bucks are a much improved defensive team. To do so, Lopez will need to anchor Milwaukee's defense with his formidable shot-blocking at the rim, deterring opponents from making their way inside.