The Milwaukee Bucks secured a 125-119 victory over the Charlotte Hornets, extending their hot streak to six wins in their last seven games. This recent success isn’t solely due to their superstar duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard; it’s the Milwaukee Bucks’ bench that has stepped up significantly, particularly in November, where they’ve been the NBA’s most efficient three-point shooting unit with a scorching 44.3% from beyond the arc.
In the Hornets game, the bench once again played a pivotal role. Gary Trent Jr. led the way with 16 points on 75% shooting, including 4-of-5 from three, while AJ Green added nine points, also shooting 75% from the field (all three-pointers). These performances highlight the consistent contributions from the Bucks’ second unit, which has become a key factor in the team’s recent success.
Milwaukee Bucks’ Bench Is Leading the Charge in November
Bench’s Dominance in November
The Bucks’ bench has not only been efficient but also instrumental in maintaining leads and changing the momentum of games. In November, they lead the league in 3-point percentage (44.3%), outpacing teams like the Cavaliers (41.4%) and Knicks (40.4%). This surge has alleviated pressure on the starters, giving the Bucks a level of depth they lacked earlier in the season. Let’s break down the key players driving this bench resurgence.
Gary Trent Jr.: Finding His Groove
After a rocky start to the season, Gary Trent Jr. has embraced his role off the bench. Since the adjustment, Trent has rediscovered his shooting touch, averaging 8.7 points on 47.9% shooting from three in November. His confidence has been evident in clutch moments, such as a pivotal three-pointer late in the fourth quarter against the Indiana Pacers that helped seal the victory.
Trent’s improved efficiency has been complemented by a noticeable leap in his defensive performance. He’s consistently making it harder for opponents to score, showcasing his value on both ends of the floor. This two-way impact has solidified his importance as a key rotation player.
AJ Green: The Ultimate 3-and-D Weapon
AJ Green has been one of the most pleasant surprises for the Bucks this season. Known for his shooting, Green has expanded his game to become a reliable defender. In November, he’s averaging 9.8 points on 48.5% from three while stepping up defensively against some of the league’s best guards. Green’s ability to navigate screens and stay in front of his assignments has drawn praise from teammates and coaches alike.
Andre Jackson Jr.: The X-Factor
Andre Jackson Jr. may not light up the scoreboard—he’s averaging just 3.8 points per game in November—but his contributions go far beyond points. Jackson’s energy, defensive IQ, and playmaking have been game-changers for the Bucks. His presence on the court consistently elevates the team’s performance. Whether it’s grabbing crucial rebounds, forcing turnovers, or making the extra pass, Jackson’s fingerprints are all over the Bucks’ success.
Why the Milwaukee Bucks’ Bench Matters
The Bucks’ bench improvements are a direct reflection of their coaching adjustments and player development. Doc Rivers’ decision to shift players like Trent into roles that maximize their strengths has paid dividends. The depth provided by the bench gives Milwaukee a significant edge, allowing stars like Antetokounmpo and Lillard to stay fresh while maintaining a high level of play.
As Milwaukee continues its hot streak, the bench’s contributions will be pivotal in navigating the challenges of the NBA season. If their November performance is a sign of things to come, this group has the potential to play a pivotal role as the season progresses.
