Prominent strength has turned into early weakness for Bucks promising rookie

When the Milwaukee Bucks selected Tyler Smith in the second round of the recent 2024 NBA Draft, the appeal was clear as day.

At 6-foot-11, the 19-year-old possesses impressive athleticism and marksmanship from the outside that would help him fit seamlessly in Milwaukee's frontcourt. While no one expected Smith or fellow rookie AJ Johnson to come into the league as a finished product, the youngster has had a tough time finding his footing as a shooter, one of his greatest attributes, thus far.

Bucks' Tyler Smith is still looking for 3-point stroke

In 26 games with the G-League Ignite last season, Smith shot 36.4 percent on four tries per matchup, a strong number for a player of his size. It was that shooting that had him circled on Milwaukee's draft board, but he hasn't replicated it in his early action as a Buck to this point.

In five Summer League games, Smith shot a mere 28.9 percent on five attempts per contest. He got his share of good looks, but Smith simply struggled to knock them down consistently. During these first three preseason games, it has been more of the same. In these games, Smith has knocked down 20 percent of his tries (13th on the team) on 3.3 attempts per outing.

For Smith to carve out a role for himself as a Milwaukee Buck in the near future, it all starts with him becoming a reliable perimeter shooter. As evidenced by Brook Lopez and Bobby Portis, having a big man who can sink triples and draw defenses away from the hoop is crucial to getting the best out of Giannis Antetokounmpo, as it gives him more room to operate close to the hoop offensively.

In all likelihood, Tyler Smith won't be in Milwaukee's rotation on night one of the regular season. As he aims to get into the mix, though, the best thing he can do is work tirelessly to develop a rather reliable 3-point shot. Whether it's at practice or just shooting around when he can, Smith should make it his mission to shoot his way out of this slump and grow in that regard.

With one preseason game left on the schedule, it would be a great sign if Tyler Smith came out hot and sunk a handful of 3-point tries.

If he puts the work in, the rookie power forward could have a bright future with the Milwaukee Bucks.

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