Kyle

Kuzma

Kuzma’s percentages on Wednesday weren’t the best, but the rebounds and assists were solid as the Bucks played another game without Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf). In the four games Milwaukee played without its superstar forward after the trade deadline, Kuzma averaged 16.3 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.0 three-pointers. However, he’s ranked outside the top 200 in eight-cat formats due to the low percentages and lackluster defensive production.

Kuzma had a good night shooting the basketball, making six of his nine attempts after going 5-of-13 in Sunday’s win over Philadelphia. However, he didn’t offer any value outside of points, rebounds, and field-goal percentage, which likely disappointed fantasy managers. With Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf) out, the Bucks will need more production from their recent acquisition. Hopefully, that includes increases in assists and defensive stats.

Kuz logged 24 minutes off the bench in his Bucks debut on Friday, but he replaced Bobby Portis in the starting five Sunday with favorable results. Kuz shot just 5-of-13 from the floor, but he made an impact as a rebounder and facilitator. His move from Washington was an upgrade for the Bucks from a real-world basketball perspective, but he’s unlikely to be a valuable fantasy option for the Bucks while playing alongside high-usage players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.

The Bucks will be without Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf) through the All-Star break, opening up a spot in the starting lineup. The recently acquired Kuzma will start, while Bobby Portis will come off the bench. A fantasy disappointment with the Wizards, Kuzma was solid in his Bucks debut on Friday.

Kuzma made his debut for Milwaukee, and from a fantasy perspective, it was just more of the same. Kuzma has had an abysmal season, but his shooting struggles were still prevalent in his first game as a Buck. He only played 24 minutes, but this was without Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf) in the lineup. It’s unclear if they intend to eventually move Kuzma into the starting lineup, but even if that happens, it’s difficult to imagine Kuzma becoming a fantasy stud overnight. He ranks outside the top-300 in 9-cat leagues this season.

Both players were dealt to Milwaukee ahead of the trade deadline, and both Kuzma and Sims will suit up for the Bucks the first time against the Hawks. Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf) is sidelined, so there should be extra minutes and shots available. Sims’ role is unclear at this point, but Kuzma will have a chance to start.

Giannis was initially listed as questionable to play in this game after missing their game against Charlotte on Wednesday. Bobby Portis shined as a starter in that game, and he should remain in that role once again, though the debut of Kyle Kuzma could mix things up.

Connaughton is on the injury report with a left calf strain. He’s received a bump in playing time in his previous two games in the aftermath of Milwaukee’s recent trades but should return to a minor role once Kyle Kuzma makes his Bucks debut.

Recent rumors indicated that this deal was close to happening, and now it is official. After spending a few seasons in Washington, Kuzma will head to Milwaukee. The Bucks have lost four games in a row, but they still sit in 5th place in the East. That is a dramatic improvement over how things have been going in Washington, as they are currently the only team that has yet to reach 10 wins. Kuzma should slide into the starting unit for Milwaukee, which will push either Taurean Prince of Andre Jackson Jr. to the bench. Kuz ranks outside the top-300 in 9-cat leagues this season and has had the worst shooting season of his career. He has only played 27.7 minutes per game, so perhaps an increase in role and an improved situation will be enough to help him get back on track.

In a frustrating season for fantasy managers who drafted Kuzma, “Good Kyle” showed up in Minneapolis on Saturday. Recording his second 30-point game in five outings, the Wizards forward shot the ball efficiently and was also productive on the glass. Kuzma’s fantasy value remains incredibly low, but a night like Saturday shows what he’s capable of when locked in. Washington plays four games during Week 15, beginning with the Hornets on Monday. Three of the Wizards’ four games will be against teams currently below .500 (Hornets, Nets, and Hawks).