PODCAST and Bucks Stock Market: Milwaukee improves to .500 with a big win in Detroit.

A lot is changing around the NBA right now, but thankfully the Bucks beating the Pistons provided comforting normalcy.

We recorded right after the Bucks finished beating up the Pistons yet again, so you get a twofer in this post: a Gyro Step podcast and a Bucks Stock Market.

First off, the pod: we sent good vibes and well wishes to Khris Middleton, who tested positive for COVID, before expressing some anger about the lack of information we’re getting from the Bucks on all of the guys not named Khris who are out for various injuries.

We also talked some basketball, which was much more enjoyable. Some players in particular we focused on: Giannis Antetokounmpo, who should win MVP again, plus Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Pat Connaughton, Grayson Allen, Jordan Nwora, Bobby Portis, and Justin Robinson. The silver lining of so many starters sitting out is chances to play for some of these guys, and a few of them are really making the most of their opportunities.

The episode concludes with our thoughts on the new Bucks City Edition jersey, and some thoughts on all of the other teams’ City Editions too.

The Bucks Stock Market is a fictitious market run by the GSPN crew that tracks player stock “movement” following the conclusion of every game. Here’s the spreadsheet logging the game-by-game results.

A much-needed win after dropping the last three, the Milwaukee Bucks got back to 0.500 after beating the Detroit Pistons for the 15th (!!!) time in a row. Let’s get into the movements!

Justin Robinson📈

I talked after Saturday’s game against the Spurs about how Robinson has been doing a serviceable job as a backup point guard with Jrue Holiday still out. Against the Pistons, Robinson showed that he can not only be serviceable, but actually be a positive contributor! He’s hitting his threes and his passes are now going to the right people, what more could you ask for?

Giannis Antetokounmpo📈

I’m running out of adjectives to describe Giannis. This man has been toying with the Pistons franchise for the past few years, and he did not let up on Tuesday. Giannis put up 28 points, 8 rebounds, 9 assists, and 4 blocks on 56.3/42.9/100 shooting splits. Like, WHAT?? Oh by the way he did that in just under 27 minutes of playing time.

Thanasis Antetokounmpo📈

Some people doubt his offensive capabilities, but I do not. Thanasis just has a knack for finding the right spots on both offense and defense, and stays within himself rather than trying to do too much. Over the past two seasons, he has really developed himself into a good role player, and should still see playing time when this team is fully healthy.

Pat Connaughton📈

Planet Pat has been playing out of his mind recently. It doesn’t feel like he misses anymore, and his summer work on finishing at the basket is definitely paying off. This downhill element to his game and playmaking off the short roll is just another element to add to an already title-worthy Bucks offense.

Jordan Nwora📈

After a few rough performances, Nwora looked like himself again playing against the Pistons. Though he didn’t light it up from behind the arc, Nwora worked his way to the rim and even had a massive driving dunk! He seems to be growing used to his consistent rotation role, which will be key as the season goes on.