For the 10th time in 16 games this season, Andre Jackson Jr. logged a DNP for the Milwaukee Bucks against the 76ers. Despite injury absences and an obvious need for defense at the wing, clearly, Jackson has not earned the confidence of his head coach or the team.
Jackson has fallen completely out of Bucks’ favor
To say that Jackson hasn’t seen the floor much would be an understatement. The fourth-year wing has played 22 minutes total, attempting two shots and missing both. He has contributed two rebounds, six assists, one block, two steals, and zero points. He has played just about exclusively in garbage time.
Dec 26, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Andre Jackson Jr. (44) drives for a shot over Brooklyn Nets forward Cameron Johnson (2) during the second quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
That’s a stark contrast to last season, when Jackson played 67 games and started 43. It’s not that the Bucks don’t need wing defense. With how poorly Gary Trent Jr. has played and Taurean Prince hurt, they need backend rotation minutes badly even with Kuzma replacing Trent in the starting five. Amir Coffey was supposed to be that guy, but he came to Milwaukee and fell off a cliff.
That was all true before Giannis went out, and now the Bucks have more minutes available for everyone.
Just not for Jackson.
Instead, Doc has relied on Gary Harris to fill the void of needed wing play. After benchwarming for most of the season, Harris has now eclipsed 20 minutes of action in three of the last four games, including last night. He’s done what’s asked, knocking down a shot here or there, playing tough, and providing veteran savvy and leadership.
Rather than expand the rotation against Philly, Milwaukee’s first game post-Giannis’ groin strain, Rivers leaned into Harris and Trent. To the latter’s credit, he has been more productive since coming off the bench, and it’s not like he was going to fall entirely out of the rotation anyway.
Jan 14, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Sacramento Kings forward Keegan Murray (13) looks for a shot against Milwaukee Bucks forward Andre Jackson Jr. (44) in the first quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
If Jackson was wowing in practice you’d think he would earn some playing time. Maybe the Bucks will change their tune, but moving forward, it seems like more of the same – namely, nothing – awaits Jackson.
For More Great Wisconsin Content
Follow me on X at @ezsniper14 and follow us@WiSportsHeroics for more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in Wisconsin sports,click here!