Following a rough start to the season triggered by nagging injuries, the Milwaukee Bucks are suddenly rolling. They are looking more like the reigning NBA champions, and the ever-growing impact of Bobby Portis has been a main factor why.
Portis was among those injured to begin the 2021-22 campaign, but now that he’s healthy (and with Brook Lopez being sidelined with a back injury since opening night), the former Arkansas Razorback has blossomed in his promoted role with the Bucks.
Since being inserted into the starting lineup, Bobby has been a more efficient, consistent complement in the frontcourt, which has propelled Milwaukee to its current six-game win streak.
Bobby Portis is the long-term answer at center for the Milwaukee Bucks
As Bobby Portis continues to thrive as the starting center for the Milwaukee Bucks, his stellar impact could result in earning the long-term role.
After becoming an influential fan favorite across the Milwaukee Bucks fanbase as an energetic and heartful spark off the bench during the championship run, Bobby Portis hasn’t slowed down one bit.
He’s averaging a career-high 15.4 points and 8.5 rebounds per game while shooting 49.4 percent from the field and 46.2 percent from three-point range through 15 games this season.
Portis has started 11 straight contests and is averaging 28.0 minutes per game overall. Last season, the passionate big man only started seven non-postseason games and averaged 20.8 minutes per game. His productivity, volume, and consistency have all taken a massive leap in his second year with Milwaukee.
His presence at the starting center position has given this team a more explosive pop offensively and it continues to generate success as the Bucks follow this win streak. It raises the question of whether Portis should become the next established starting center for the Bucks in the foreseeable future.