© John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Adrian Griffin explains the rationale behind starting rookie Andre Jackson Jr.
The Milwaukee Bucks sprung a surprise on the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night. With superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo missing the game due to a calf issue, there was a huge vacancy that needed to be filled in the starting lineup. While many expected ace reserve Bobby Portis to get the call to start, Bucks coach Adrian Griffin instead went with rookie wingman Andre Jackson Jr.
Raptors’ size and versatility
Even with star forward OG Anunoby missing the game, the Raptors still had plenty of size in their frontcourt with All-Star Pascal Siakam, former Rookie of the Year Scottie Barnes, and big man Jakob Poetl. With Giannis and forward Jae Crowder out due to injuries, Griffin knew he had to bring someone in to provide energy and activity without compromising the second unit. That’s when Jackson Jr. got the call.
“I just looked at their length, their size. The Raptors are extremely versatile with that lineup, with Scottie Barnes and Pascal (Siakam). In the past, they were starting (Otto) Porter, too, and he’s 6'9''. And then (Jakob) Poeltl. They have a bunch of size out there, and I thought we needed some help on the glass,” Griffin said.
Earned the spot
After an efficient showing versus Chicago earlier in the week, Jackson Jr. kept his foot on the pedal and churned out another solid outing against the Raptors. Although Damian Lillard and Malik Beasley were the stars of the show with their 30-point-plus outings, Andre held his own against the Raptors’ frontline. He played 16 minutes and produced two offensive boards and an assist.
