Entering the Summer League, plenty of Milwaukee Bucks fans had eyes on Tyler Smith, the young big man who would have a chance to showcase his development. While there was a chance he could take a big leap, the general consensus was that he likely needs another year or two to grow into a rotation player at the NBA level, and his Summer League performance backs that claim up.
Smith, though potential-filled, needs more time to develop for Bucks
In his four Summer League outings, Smith averaged just seven points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game, not tallying a single assist. The most obvious indication of struggle was his outside shot, as the big man went just 2-of-23 from deep in his four games. As he looked to prove he may be ready for a role in the big leagues next season, Tyler Smith struggled.
Even with the grueling shooting, there's no doubt that Smith still showed some flashes. He flexed his shot-blocking chops, showing that he can use his height and length to his advantage as a defender. Though he couldn't throw a rock in the ocean, he never lost confidence in his shot and consistently fired away time and time again. The greats all have that gene. Still, there's plenty of work to be done.
He still needs to sink that perimeter shot - his most valuable attribute and what got him drafted - consistently. The one-on-one defense is still a work in progress. Too many turnovers and fouls are something he's looking to overcome.
At just 20 years old, it's not overly shocking Smith is still fairly raw. The Milwaukee Bucks took him last offseason knowing he was far from a finished product, envisioning him cracking the rotation in the distant future, not immediately. Set to enter his sophomore season, Smith has plenty of time to work on his game and aim to take that next step.
For Tyler Smith, next season will likely be much like his rookie season. He'll spend time in the NBA as a Buck, but he will also see some action in Oshkosh with the Wisconsin Herd. When he's with the Bucks, he must pick the brains of players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Myles Turner, and Bobby Portis. When he's with the Herd, he must use what he's learned and put it to good work on the basketball court.
With a loaded frontcourt, Smith will have the opportunity to learn from some good company, but his time in the rotation is still likely far off in the distance because of it. With a youth movement underway, Smith taking a leap could earn him a substantial amount of money in the future as a Milwaukee Buck.
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