Taylor Jenkins used no shortage of different lineup combinations during his debut preseason game with the Milwaukee Bucks. While many stood out, the minutes that Jericho Sims and Kel'el Ware were both on the court stood out mightily. Jenkins, like Bucks fans, was impressed with what he saw, giving it his approval during his recent media availability.
"I liked what I saw with Kel and J-Roc on both sides of the floor just for a first showing."
Jenkins needs to keep exploring this pairing
It would have been difficult not to be impressed with the Ware-Sims minutes. The two have a unique blend of athleticism, height, and length that they used to take up so much of the court. Obviously, that stood out in the rebounding department, where Ware hauled in 12 and Sims had three, as they outmatched their opponents. Given their past rebounding struggles, this development is positive.
Second, the duo showed its versatility offensively. Sims only scored one basket on the night, and it came at his sweet spot close to the hoop. Yet, he was always lurking inside, leaving Ware open from long range, where he sank two 3-pointers. It's not the same from a status standpoint, but it's similar to when the Milwaukee Bucks had Giannis Antetokounmpo and Brook Lopez in town.
Of course, we can't overlook the defense. Having one 7-footer and another player who isn't too far behind who have the athleticism to defend the rim but also guard in space near the perimeter made the Milwaukee Bucks all the more versatile, giving the Timberwolves trouble.
Ware, Sims could spearhead top defensive lineup
If the Bucks throw out three other defensive-minded pieces, this five-man unit could be a formidable combination. As Jenkins continues hammering home the importance of his team's defensive effort in the early days of his tenure, it would only make sense to keep these two on the floor often and test out a combination of players who could complement them.
If the Milwaukee Bucks trotted out Ryan Rollins, Kevin Porter Jr., and Kyle Kuzma alongside that duo, perhaps it could raise some eyebrows. Sure, Kuzma is under fire after his poor showing, but he's still the team's most versatile wing defender for the time being. Meanwhile, Rollins and Porter are still two feisty guard defenders who can take turns embracing the most difficult assignments.
It's worth exploring throughout the rest of the NBA preseason, as the Milwaukee Bucks might have a special two-way duo on their hands here.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.
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