The Wisconsin Herd, the G League affiliate of the Milwaukee Bucks, has seen an exceptional start to the 2024-25 season from guard Stephen Thompson Jr.. Through three games, Thompson has emerged as one of the most productive players in the league, currently ranking as the second-highest scorer in the G League with 28.7 points per game. Thompson’s performance not only highlights his offensive firepower but also raises the question of how he might bolster the Bucks’ roster during a challenging stretch.
Stephen Thompson Jr.: A Case for the Bucks
Breaking Down His Performances
In the first game of the season, Thompson came off the bench and scored 14 points while adding two assists and three steals. Though his shooting efficiency (30.8% from the field) wasn’t ideal, the Oregon State alumnus flashed the skill set that would become evident in subsequent games.
Thompson’s first start saw him erupt for 40 points, becoming the first player to hit the 40-point mark in the G League this season. The guard, who went undrafted in the 2019 NBA Draft, was dominant, shooting 62.5% from the field and 54.5% from beyond the arc. His ability to create offense for himself while also contributing on the defensive end with five steals showcased his two-way potential.
In his second consecutive start, Thompson continued to lead the way for the Herd with 32 points. While his shooting efficiency dipped slightly (43.5%), he added six rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Thompson’s scoring and playmaking kept the Herd competitive, even in another loss.
Strong Season Averages
Through three games, Thompson has established himself as one of the G League’s top offensive threats. His averages of 28.7 points per game on 48.3% shooting from the field and 37.0% from beyond the arc highlight his ability to score efficiently from all levels. Additionally, his knack for forcing turnovers—averaging 3.7 steals per game—makes him a valuable asset on the defensive end.
Can Thompson Help the Bucks?
The Milwaukee Bucks are currently navigating a challenging period with injuries to key players. Khris Middleton remains sidelined without a clear return date, and Damian Lillard has missed multiple games. This has placed a heavy burden on Giannis Antetokounmpo to carry the offense. Thompson’s skill set could offer some relief.
With his ability to score in isolation, knock down shots from deep, and create his own offense, Thompson could provide the Bucks with much-needed depth. His efficiency in the G League suggests that he could complement the Bucks’ stars by spacing the floor and taking some of the scoring load off Antetokounmpo and Lillard. Furthermore, his defensive instincts and ability to force turnovers could bolster Milwaukee’s perimeter defense.
What Stephen Thompson Jr. Brings to the Table
Stephen Thompson Jr.’s explosive start in the G League makes a strong case for a call-up to the Bucks. As Milwaukee faces depth concerns and the absence of key contributors, Thompson’s offensive production and two-way potential could be a welcome addition. Whether or not the Bucks capitalize on this opportunity remains to be seen, but Thompson has certainly caught the league’s attention early in the season.
