The Milwaukee Bucks have established themselves as a perennial NBA contender, anchored by the transcendent talent of Giannis Antetokounmpo and the all-time shooting greatness of last year’s blockbuster acquisition in Damian Lillard.
Yet despite their potential for postseason success, a persistent flaw has plagued the franchise through the years: perimeter defense. While the Bucks have made strides in this area — such as in PJ Tucker who helped them to an NBA title in 2021 — they've consistently sought a true lockdown wing defender to solidify their defensive identity.
Former Los Angeles Lakers forward Taurean Prince, known for his defensive prowess and versatility, had emerged as a valuable asset for several NBA teams throughout most of this offseason.
His ability to guard multiple positions while providing decent floor-spacing with his 3-point shooting ability makes him a coveted asset in today's league. For the Bucks, who most recently signed him to an eye-catching one-year minimum deal, he could be the missing piece to the defensive puzzle they’ve faced for years now.
The Bucks have tried various solutions to their perimeter defense woes over the years. They've experimented with different lineups, acquired players with defensive reputations and even implemented defensive schemes designed to mitigate their weaknesses.
From Semi Ojeleye to Wesley Matthews to DeAndre' Bembry to Jae Crowder, they've yet to find a consistent and reliable answer to the league’s top-scoring wings, who have consistently been their downfall in the playoffs. To be blunt, it has been one of their biggest question marks since 2021.
Could Taurean Prince be the answer? Let’s take a look at the reputation he’s built up over his career and see if he can truly be a difference-maker in this area for the Milwaukee Bucks.