Giannis Antetokounmpo took massive strides in the mid-range game this past season, finishing as one of the most productive scorers from that spot league-wide. While sustaining that shot will be a major focus for the Greek Freak this coming season, there's also a chance he could add to it. If the forward wants to be even more lethal, he must make more turnaround fadeaways in the mid-range.
Giannis is nearing yet another level offensively
On the surface, some might believe the turnaround fadeaway isn't in Giannis' bag of tricks. Yet, when he's not driving to the lane, it's a shot he takes often. Last season, Antetokounmpo knocked down 23 of his 59 turnaround fadeaway looks. At 39 percent, Giannis showed glimpses of promise with this particular shot, but there's still plenty of room to grow.
Even if he can get the success rate on these turnaround fadeaways to the mid-40s, it could take his game to the next level. Giannis is already one of the top scorers in the NBA primarily relying on his regular mid-range, driving, and free throws. Imagine if he's knocking down this particular jumper with more regularity. His scoring production would reach new heights.
Giannis may already be laying the groundwork to improve this shot, as he hinted in an interview with Sport24 that he'd like to work out with Carmelo Anthony. The Hall of Famer was one of the smoothest scorers in the NBA in his day, and that turnaround fadeaway was a staple in his game. A workout with Anthony could take that blossoming mid-range to new heights.
In that same interview, Giannis mentioned how he's always looking for his next challenge. Year after year, he continues to grow as a player. While the primary focus this year will be on his passing and assuming a larger role for the Milwaukee Bucks, sharpening his mid-range game, specifically in this fadeaway-driven regard, could also be on the to-do list.
To be clear, Giannis shouldn't make this shot something he's overly reliant on. However, it could be a great accessory to have, especially when defenses collapse on him. The fadeaway could help create adequate space to get a shot off, getting him out of a pinch if there's not a good pass. Only time will tell what kind of new tricks Giannis Antetokounmpo brings to Milwaukee Bucks training camp.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.