Milwaukee Bucks: 3 things to watch at 2018 NBA Summer League
3. Can D.J. Wilson show himself to be an NBA player?
Last season the Milwaukee Bucks went out on a limb in the 2017 NBA Draft, selecting upside-play D.J. Wilson with their first round pick. Viewed by many as a reach, Wilson was the latest in a series of high-risk picks by the Milwaukee front front office. From Thon Maker to Giannis Antetokounmpo himself, this franchise has not been afraid to swing for the fences.
One year in, Wilson has done nothing to show the Bucks that their pick was anything more than a strikeout. Wilson scored just 21 points last season in 71 total minutes, averaging 3.2 minutes per game in his 22 appearances. Nothing from his G League stats screams breakout star, either. Thus far, the tune has been flat.
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That does not mean Wilson cannot turn it around; many players take a leap forward in their second seasons. If he is going to make an impact and crack the rotation this season, NBA Summer League is the place to begin.
Last season Wilson showed flashes, and defensively he looked to have staying power, but the shooting woes that began in Vegas continued in Milwaukee and Oshkosh. While Wilson was not necessarily inefficient, his volume flagged and he struggled to create offense.
Against the relatively weaker defenses presented in Las Vegas, Wilson will get his shot to show he can be something more. If Jabari Parker does leave, the Bucks could use another option at the 4, but the Wilson of last season will not be the answer. He needs to step it up, and we will have to see if he is capable.