NBA Insider defends Bucks Kyle Kuzma says fans should be patient

Can Kuzma Deliver for Milwaukee? Bucks Fans Urged to Be Patient

When the Milwaukee Bucks acquired Kyle Kuzma at last season's trade deadline, the hope was clear: another reliable scorer to join Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo. The deal saw Kris Middleton depart, bringing in a younger, more athletic wing who could stretch the floor. But the results on the court were mixed.

Kuzma's Impact Falters

The former Los Angeles Lakers forward struggled to meet expectations. In 32 games, he averaged 14.5 points per game on 45% shooting, a significant dip from his time with the Washington Wizards earlier in the season. His struggles continued into the postseason as the Bucks fell to the Indiana Pacers in the first round.

A Fresh Start and Renewed Hope

Despite the disappointing debut in Milwaukee, many remain optimistic about Kuzma heading into the 2025-26 season. Yahoo Sports' Kevin O'Connor believes Bucks fans should be patient: "I think it's fair to give him a pass for last season. It's hard to go from losing four straight years with no expectations to suddenly starting to have winning expectations."

Kuzma spent four seasons in Washington, where he occasionally showcased his ability as a high-volume scorer despite the team's struggles. The Bucks are hoping to unlock that potential in a winning environment.

With Damian Lillard sidelined after an Achilles injury suffered earlier in the offseason, Kuzma is expected to assume a larger offensive role next season. Milwaukee is betting on him to take a leap forward and contribute significantly to their championship aspirations.