The Milwaukee Bucks are entering a period of significant change as they gear up for the new NBA season, with Kyle Kuzma at the center of attention following a notable jersey change. The move comes after Damian Lillard‘s departure in July, with Kuzma adopting Lillard’s former number 0 as he looks to elevate his role on the team.
Kyle Kuzma’s Jersey Number Switch and What It Means
Kyle Kuzma, who joined the Bucks in a mid-season trade last February, initially wore number 18 during his first few months with the team. NBA numerologist Etienne Catalan confirmed that Kuzma will now switch to jersey number 0, the same number previously sported by Damian Lillard during his two-year tenure in Milwaukee. This change is intended to signal a fresh start and possibly greater responsibilities for Kuzma as the Bucks enter the new campaign.
Kuzma’s Performance and Expectations Moving Forward
During his initial partial season with Milwaukee, Kuzma displayed solid contributions, averaging 14.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists over 33 games, with a shooting efficiency of 45.5 percent from the field. Despite these respectable regular-season stats, Kuzma struggled significantly in the playoffs, managing only 29 points across five games and limited to an average of just over 20 minutes per contest. His lackluster postseason performance raised concerns about his ability to perform under pressure.
With Lillard waived and stretched early in the offseason, the Bucks are now expecting Kuzma to step up offensively and fill the void left by the All-Star guard. His increased role will also aim to support two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo as Milwaukee looks to strengthen its position atop the Eastern Conference.
Team Outlook and Potential Impact of These Changes
The Bucks have remained active throughout the summer, determined to maintain a competitive roster centered around Antetokounmpo’s leadership. While their overall moves have received mixed reviews, the shift in Kuzma’s role and his jersey number symbolizes a strategic effort to boost the team‘s offensive capabilities. As the new season approaches, the Bucks will rely heavily on Kuzma to perform consistently and contribute meaningfully in critical moments to complement their star player and contend for a championship.