Projected starting 5 and rotation for Bucks' preseason opener against Pistons

Milwaukee Bucks basketball is officially back, with a preseason matchup against the Detroit Pistons set to tip off in the coming hours.

Following a successful training camp in California, Doc Rivers will now have to showcase his rotation in this opener, something Bucks fans have been highly anticipating. With that said, let us predict how the rotation may look in this first preseason contest.

The starters

Lillard, Trent, Prince, Antetokounmpo, Lopez.

With Khris Middleton limited throughout training camp due to duel offseason ankle surgeries, it would not be surprising if he misses preseason action. If he does sit out in the preseason opener, newcomer Taurean Prince will likely claim Middleton's spot in the starting five. Prince has plenty of experience at the NBA level as a starter and has the size and length the Milwaukee Bucks need if Middleton is out.

Gary Trent Jr. hasn't been confirmed to be Milwaukee's starting shooting guard, but it feels like it will be announced inevitably. On paper, he fits well with this starting unit, and with Doc Rivers highlighting the wing's defensive effort in camp, the thought of him starting has become all the more interesting.

The reserves

Wright, Green, Portis, Connaughton, Jackson, Johnson, Smith.

Considering this is a preseason game, it wouldn't be surprising if Doc Rivers spread out the minutes to get a look at plenty of players. Delon Wright, Bobby Portis and AJ Green feel like they will get the first calls off the bench, while Pat Connaughton, AJ Johnson, Tyler Smith and Andre Jackson Jr. will wait to hear their names called for a smaller amount of time.

Green is one Buck who could benefit mightily from a solid preseason showing. Doc Rivers recently raved about how good of a summer the guard had, and if he comes out guns blazing throughout the preseason, he could cement his spot in the rotation. Rivers showed last year that he liked him after taking over, but taking a leap in year three will be crucial for the young wing.

It'd be nice to see the rookies get their feet wet. During the Summer League, both Johnson and Smith showed glimpses of potential with their athleticism, speed and length, and it'd be welcoming to watch them on a basketball court alongside the team's other key cogs. One question surrounding the team is what their plans are for these two youngsters during their rookie year, and this could be telling.

Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.