The Milwaukee Bucks haven't hit on most of their draft picks under general manager Jon Horst. Most of Horst's roster tweaks have come through trades and free agency, largely due to the team's inability to find a hidden gem in the draft. The jury is still out on several of Horst's current draft picks, and next year might be the perfect time for this poor track record of draft selections to be put to rest.
Bucks need to get something from their draft picks
What do the Milwaukee Bucks need more of this offseason? Youth, athleticism, speed, mobility, etc. While they will have some flexibility to add all of this, Damian Lillard's injury still has them handcuffed to a certain degree. This could (and should) force them to turn to the youngsters they already have on the roster, as well as one they can add very soon.
Andre Jackson Jr., Chris Livingston, and Tyler Smith are all recent second-round picks who are still very much unknown enigmas. If there were ever a time for a youngster to come through for the Bucks, it would be next season. With Lillard out, the team will be seeking a spark anywhere they can get it, and all three of these youngsters have what it takes to help in their own right, on paper.
Jackson, as he showed this past season before being abruptly benched, can be an energizer due to his defensive pressure and transition capabilities. Livingston, 21, is raw, but his athletic ability is still captivating enough that he has two-way potential. Tyler Smith could help the Milwaukee Bucks out as they hunt down athletic big men who can also adequately space the floor.
All three players should be under a microscope if they are back next season, especially Jackson and Livingston, who will be entering crucial third years.
Horst will also have an opportunity to turn over a new leaf with the 47th selection in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft next month. In years past, that placement might not seem too exciting, but this class is filled with potential-filled prospects. Horst has an opportunity to add an impact player, and he must capitalize on it if they ultimately keep the pick for themselves.
The Milwaukee Bucks desperately need someone to shatter this curse that has haunted the team for so many years now. Whether it's Jackson, Livingston, Smith, or someone new, breaking through could give the Bucks a needed boost next season. The opportunity is there for the taking. It's now time to find and develop some homegrown talent.
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