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NBA: Under The Radar Reserves Contributing Big Time

By Simon Smith

Dec 14, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Toronto Raptors forward Patrick Patterson (54) reacts to his three pointer in front of Philadelphia 76ers guard Gerald Henderson (12) during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Toronto Raptors won 123.114. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 14, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Toronto Raptors forward Patrick Patterson (54) reacts to his three pointer in front of Philadelphia 76ers guard Gerald Henderson (12) during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Toronto Raptors won 123.114. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Leon Halip-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Leon Halip-USA TODAY Sports /

Greg Monroe, Milwaukee Bucks

Early this season, Monroe looked like the odd man out in Milwaukee. A throwback to the old-school power-forward/center, head coach Jason Kidd wanted to maximize the talents of rising stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jabari Parker. In going with this line of thinking, Monroe has not started a game this season.

In fact, earlier in the season, his role was fairly negligible. Over an 11-game stretch, Monroe averaged just 16.4 minutes per game and even experienced the dreaded DNP-CD (Did Not Play – Coach’s Decision). For a player who had averaged 30.9 minutes per game over six seasons prior to the year, this represents a significant adjustment.

But Monroe must receive tremendous credit for the manner in which he has handled this situation. In fact, his contributions has been a vital component for the reason the Bucks currently place sixth in the Eastern Conference with a 17-16 record. His numbers this season are fairly modest – 10.2 points, 6.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 20.4 minutes per game.

But delve deeper and Monroe’s true value to the Bucks can be more appreciated.

Offensive Rating (Milwaukee’s points scored per 100 possessions)

  • Monroe On Court: 114.1
  • Monroe Off Court: 102.4

Defensive Rating (Opposition points scored per 100 possessions)

  • On Court: 104.0
  • Off Court: 104.7

Despite having a much smaller role than previous seasons, Monroe’s impact is still being felt. With the Bucks having a net rating of +10.1 when he’s on the floor and -2.3 when resting, one may wonder why Monroe’s playing time has not been rewarded. Furthermore, Monroe is an overall +139 when he’s been on the floor for the season.

Over the last seven games, Monroe has received 26.1 minutes per game. During this time, he’s posted 15.0 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game while hitting at a 59.5 percent clip from the field. Most impressively in this time, Monroe is an overall +44 when on the floor.

The clip below is just one example of the old-school, low-post moves that Monroe possesses:

Monroe’s improved play and comfort level with his new role can only help the Bucks push for a playoff spot as the season progresses.