The Bucks implemented a startling rotation change in their most recent game when Kyle Kuzma was benched entirely with a DNP-CD (Did Not Play - Coach’s Decision). It was the first-ever DNP-CD of Kuzma’s career and gave Ousmane Dieng a starting opportunity alongside the returning Giannis Antetokounmpo. But the shift can also signal more minutes for Pete Nance in the future.Â
After seeing extremely lackluster effort in the prior game against the Bulls, Doc Rivers went with a different starting lineup and substitutions. Kuzma was replaced by younger options in Dieng and Nance. They often bring more energy than Kuzma and can be better in complementary roles.
A frontcourt shift may be taking place in Milwaukee
Benching Kuzma was a very unexpected and head-scratching move for the Bucks, but there are potential silver linings. Giving the younger wings in Dieng and Nance more development reps is great for their growth. However, it might be detrimental to the team’s success right now.
Nance has made a surprising impact this season largely through his hustle. He’s been very active on the boards whenever he plays and brings energy to the defensive end. It doesn’t hurt that he’s one of the most versatile forwards on the Bucks roster and capable of switching out onto guards for stretches.
Offensively, Nance’s funky 3-point shot has opened new possibilities as well. Combined with his hard rolls and excellent screen-setting, it’s all combined into a perfect role player. Keeping him around and continuing to develop him should be part of the Bucks’ future plans, regardless of what else happens with the team.
Unfortunately, Nance had recently seen his minutes go down, typically replaced by another energetic frontcourt player in Jericho Sims. But with Kuzma out of the rotation, both Sims and Nance saw over 15 minutes of action against the Celtics.Â
However, the optimal solution to this frontcourt problem probably isn’t keeping Kuzma out of the game entirely. Doc Rivers needs to do a better job of balancing his rotations and finding the right distribution of minutes for his different impact players. Hopefully Nance can continue to get minutes and an opportunity to develop even if Kuzma rejoins the rotation as expected.
Kuzma should still be able to contribute on the court and also be a mentor to Nance. At one point, Kuzma himself was that energetic young forward and versatile defender. And it resulted in a championship for him in 2020 with the Lakers. Now a nine-year veteran, he should have plenty of wisdom to import on his younger teammates.
Amidst the chaos of the Bucks’ frequent lineup changes, we hope that Pete Nance can carve his way into a consistent role. He’s been a perfect bench piece for the Bucks and the right guy to take advantage of any minutes that open up in the frontcourt.