When Giannis Antetokounmpo returns after the All-Star break, the Milwaukee Bucks will have to make several difficult rotation choices. One key question will center on Ousmane Dieng and how he fits into the lineup once the roster is fully healthy.
The much anticipated newcomer has played outstanding basketball since arriving in Milwaukee and has quickly carved out a meaningful role. Once Antetokounmpo returns, the coaching staff should strongly consider cutting into Kyle Kuzma’s minutes, especially given Kuzma’s uneven production and the immediate spark Ousmane Dieng has provided.
Ousmane Dieng looks like a brand new player in the Bucks system.
OKC: 4.2 PPG | 2.1 RPG | 1.0 APG
MIL: 18.0 PPG | 7.0 RPG | 3.0 APG
Efficiency: 59% FG / 57% 3PT (last 2 games)
Bucks found a gem.💎 pic.twitter.com/EURbNWs4jR
— SleeperBucks (@SleeperBucksNBA) February 18, 2026
Despite the criticism he has faced, Kyle Kuzma has not performed poorly for the Milwaukee Bucks this season. Although his statistics have dipped from a year ago, he has embraced a more team oriented approach, which has helped him adjust to his role. Still, that does not erase the reality that while Kuzma can contribute as a solid supporting piece, Ousmane Dieng offers significantly greater upside and long term potential.
Ousmane Dieng with the Bucks
Feb 12, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Ousmane Dieng (21) gestures after scoring against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
In his last two games, Ousmane Dieng has averaged 18 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and two blocks while shooting 57.1 percent from three-point range. While the sample size is small, he has already displayed the skills the Bucks have been missing for a while, including wing depth, shot-blocking, strong rebounding, and reliable outside shooting. Adding to his appeal, he is only 22 years old, giving Milwaukee a young player with significant upside.
Ousmane Dieng needs to be at the center of the Milwaukee Bucks’ rotation as they push a youth movement down the stretch. It would be a misstep to reduce his role once Giannis Antetokounmpo returns after the All-Star break.
Feb 12, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Ousmane Dieng (21) smiles after a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Dieng should not take minutes from Giannis, but he should see playing time at the expense of Bobby Portis and especially Kyle Kuzma.
The young Bucks forward has emerged as a hidden gem for Milwaukee. After four seasons with little meaningful playing time, he’s now been given a real opportunity and is making a name for himself fast. The Bucks would make a mistake by limiting his minutes. No matter the results after the All-Star break, Dieng deserves a spot on the floor.