Milwaukee Bucks Need To Focus On Building An Identity In 2015-16 Stretch Run

The Milwaukee Bucks had a lot of hopes for the season, after an impressive first season under coach Jason Kidd. They made a big free-agent signing by bringing in Greg Monroe and had an impressive young core to build around. There was a lot of versatility in their lineup, and their blitzing defense had proven to be effective. Unfortunately, they have not been able to live up to expectations and will likely not be making the postseason this year.

While the Bucks have a lot of young talent, they have not fit well together as a whole. Point guard has been a tough position for them, and it is unclear what the coaching staff wants from the position. Michael Carter-Williams has the size and athleticism to fit their defensive scheme, but his inability to shoot and lack of effectiveness off the ball makes it hard to play him next to certain players on offense. Jerryd Bayless offers them a different type of point guard, but he too hasn’t been good enough.

Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jabari Parker both have the potential to be stars in the league, and although there has been some improvement, they still have a long way to go in figuring out how to play together. Neither really has an outside shot, which allows defenses to pack the paint, as they are both at their best when getting shots inside the arc. They also make for an odd fit together, as they both play the position and neither has proven that they can play the power forward spot just yet.

Monroe has been an effective player this season, but more was expected from him after joining the Bucks. He is a good low post player but is at his best around the rim; there is just not enough floor-spacing on this team. Outside of Khris Middleton, who has arguably been the team’s best player, and Bayless, there isn’t much shooting on the roster, which makes it easier for opponents drop back into the key. This has had an effect on Monroe’s offensive game, as he is not finding enough room to operate.

The Bucks still have a lot of potential and could be a very good team next year. They need to figure out what type of team they are and how their players best fit together. They have the talent to be successful but need their younger players to develop different aspects of their game.