It’s early in the season, but Kyle Kuzma is already showing why the Milwaukee Bucks traded for him. In his first 10 games, he has delivered a boost off the bench, a marked difference from last season when he mainly started. Playing in a reserve role has unlocked the version of Kuzma the Bucks have been waiting for.
During his stint with the Washington Wizards, Kyle Kuzma started in 230 of 232 games and posted impressive averages of 19.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, though those numbers seldom translated to wins. The forward has always been able to fill up the stat sheet, but that high-usage role doesn’t always bring out the best in his team. Still, that was the version of Kuzma the Bucks saw last season.
Kyle Kuzma’s rough first season with the Bucks
Oct 28, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma (18) warms up before game against the New York Knicks at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
When Kuzma arrived in Milwaukee after the trade deadline, he often played as if he were still the primary option in Washington. His shot selection was inconsistent, and some of his passes turned into costly turnovers. In short, he tried to shoulder too much of the load. He approached games like a star, when what the Bucks really needed was a reliable supporting piece. This season, that understanding has finally sunk in.
Kuzma has completely reshaped his shot selection this season. Aware that the Bucks needed him to prioritize attacking the rim instead of settling for jumpers, he’s made a clear effort to drive with purpose. He’s been especially effective on cuts, converting 9 of 11 attempts for an impressive 81.8 percent. The jump shot remains part of his game, but he’s shown far better judgment on when to take it instead of launching at every opportunity.
Nov 10, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) celebrates with Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma (18) after scoring over Dallas Mavericks center Moussa Cisse (30) during the fourth quarter at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Against the Mavericks, Kuzma logged 31 minutes and delivered 26 points, five rebounds, and two assists while shooting 10-of-17 from the field and 2-of-6 from deep. His minus-five rating hardly reflected the impact he had on the game. Kuzma was a steadying presence throughout, hitting key shots, defending with focus, and providing the composure the Bucks needed during tense stretches. It might well have been his best performance in a Milwaukee uniform, coming right on the heels of his strong outing against the Rockets.
Bucks boosted by Kuzma’s change in mindset
Nov 10, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg (32) dribbles as Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma (18) defends during the third quarter at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
The second-year Bucks forward’s shift in approach has made his presence far more meaningful. He’s putting up 13.8 points per game, trailing only Giannis Antetokounmpo and the emerging Ryan Rollins on the Bucks’ scoring chart. While it marks his lowest scoring average since the 2020-21 season, his offensive contributions have never looked sharper. Instead of chasing stats, Kuzma is helping Milwaukee win through timely shot selection and smart decision-making.
This version of Kyle Kuzma could be the difference-maker Milwaukee has been searching for. Embracing his bench role appears to have reignited a hunger that was missing when he started. Instead of trying to take over games, he’s blending seamlessly with his teammates, similar to the way he contributed during the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2020 title run. The Bucks are counting on that same chemistry to spark another deep run this year.