Milwaukee Bucks: 3 reasons Bobby Portis is excelling off the bench

Bobby Portis has been versatile

At 6’10” Bobby Portis is listed as a center. However his agility gives Coach Budenholzer multiple options when it comes to which front-court players he plays alongside of. He can just as easily relieve Giannis Antetokounmpo or Brook Lopez if either of them needs a breather. Having the height to make things difficult on the opposing center, in addition to getting the occasional blocked shot, makes Portis a natural fit at the five spot. His footwork and quickness allow him to guard forwards which allows him to slide down to the four when necessary.

Having a player who can be in the game with either of the starting big-men, or even play alongside D.J. Wilson if needed, gives Milwaukee’s front-line an element of versatility. If Lopez or the Greek Freak gets in early foul trouble there’s no need to panic. They have a veteran who will comfortably fill the void and is looking to cement his role as the team’s sixth man. The best team’s in NBA history have been able to make lineup changes on the fly. Portis’s interchangeability provides that for Milwaukee.

Expectations remain high in Milwaukee as they chase the franchise’s first championship since 1971. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kris Middleton and Jrue Holiday will determine just how high this team can fly. However, no team can achieve championship glory unless the role players embrace their assignments and execute the plan. So far, Bobby Portis has stepped up to the plate. If he keeps this up, he and his teammates might finally get a chance to hold the Larry O’Brien trophy.