When a third-year player takes the court for Summer League, it typically means they are about to enter a make-or-break year. That's certainly the case for Andre Jackson Jr. of the Milwaukee Bucks, as he was recently named to the squad. Before Jackson begins a crucial year three, he must show in the Summer League that he has the skills to help this team, or trouble could be on the horizon as he aims to sort out his NBA future.
Summer League could say a lot about Andre Jackson Jr.
Andre Jackson Jr.'s time under Doc Rivers has been anything but consistent. He went from being out of the rotation last season to being a starter to being benched again. Even in the games he did start, the wing was oftentimes taken out early in favor of other players. Rivers never seemingly fully trusted him to make the right plays, keeping him on a tight leash and yanking him out when he messed up.
This isn't to say Rivers was entirely wrong. Sure, it would have been nice to see Rivers play him through some mistakes rather than immediately pull him, but Jackson's flaws were hurting the Bucks. He has a major issue with fouling, and his inability to become a threat on offense certainly made it hard to have him on the floor in crucial moments.
If Andre Jackson Jr. wants to show that he belongs, it all starts with his performance this summer. Can he consistently guard several different positions? Does he look more comfortable hunting for his own shots on the offensive end? Can he cut back on the fouls? These are all questions evaluators will be looking at as they weigh whether or not the youngster is ready for a larger role.
If Jackson has a dud of a Summer League, there's no telling where the Milwaukee Bucks may go from that point. Currently, he's being considered a depth piece, landing behind Gary Trent Jr., AJ Green, and possibly even newcomer reclamation project Gary Harris on the depth chart. That's not what he wants entering a crucial third year as he aims to land his next contract.
Jackson's contract will become guaranteed on July 7 if they decide not to waive him. It would be a shock if they did move on, so that likely won't happen. However, if he fails to make his mark during his third Summer League stint, uncomfortable conversations could soon be on the horizon.
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