While most analysts do not favor the Milwaukee Bucks to win a ring next season, the Giannis Antetokounmpo-led team still has a chance to defy expectations. However, Bobby Portis has one solid way he can facilitate the team compete better in the NBA.
Portis established himself as a key player off the bench, displaying impressive scoring skills. He played all 82 games in the 2023–24 season, averaging 13.8 points and 7.4 rebounds, while shooting 50.8% from the field and 40.7% from beyond the arc.
His performance placed him second in reserve scoring in the entire NBA, just ahead of 2024 Sixth Man of the Year Malik Monk. Portis also recorded the most double-doubles among any reserve player, highlighting his consistent offensive impact.
Despite these achievementsConcerns about his defense persist. At 6ft 1in, he struggles to counter shots effectively and often struggles to keep up with faster defenders during transitions. His pick-and-roll defense has been criticized, particularly for its tendency to secure too early and not recover quickly.
As the 2024-25 season approaches, the fan favorite has an opportunity to correct these defensive shortcomings and silence his critics. With the right attitude, he can turn external criticism into motivation, improving his performance and that of the Bucks who strive for success.
How Bobby Portis can facilitate the Milwaukee Bucks’ 2024-25 campaign
The Bucks need all the facilitate they can get as the modern season begins soon. According to an NBA analysis by Dalton Sell for Buck PassPortis can do this by focusing on rebounding.
“A lot of people could get defensive here. While it would be great if Portis started making progress defensively, that seems unlikely at this point in his career. Instead, the Milwaukee Bucks need Portis to be more effective on the glass, as his rebounding per game dropped significantly last season. When Portis attacks and collects boards, his influence becomes much more valuable to the Bucks,” Sell wrote.
As the Bucks prepare for the new season, Portis’ performance, particularly his consistency and defensive commitment, will be investigated. Despite being a key player alongside stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, he faced challenges as he was outplayed by opponents in three of his nine seasons.
For the Bucks to compete for a championship, the forward must elevate his game and provide solid support on both ends of the court, especially in rebounding. If he can do this, there is a good chance that Milwaukee will once again become a serious contender in the Eastern Conference.
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