Andre Jackson Jr. has seen his role with the Milwaukee Bucks shift dramatically this season. Jackson Jr., who has started earlier 43 games this season for his defensive intensity and versatility, now plays limited minutes off the bench. The uncertainty surrounding his role has left many fans wondering where he fits in the team’s long-term plans.
What Doc Rivers’ Comments Reveal About Andre Jackson Jr.’s Role
Doc Rivers on Jackson Jr.’s Role
Before the Bucks’ game against the Rockets, Doc Rivers addressed Jackson’s diminished role in an interview with Eric Nehm of The Athletic. He attributed the shift to mid-season roster changes and noted that Jackson’s numbers alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo were not favorable. However, Rivers emphasized that Jackson would still have opportunities based on matchups and defensive needs.
Before tonight’s game, I asked Doc Rivers how Andre Jackson Jr. went from the starting lineup before the All-Star break to essentially out of the rotation after the All-Star break.
Rivers: pic.twitter.com/uUKedhKrJ5
— Eric Nehm (@eric_nehm) February 26, 2025
Additionally, after the Bucks’ win over the Nuggets last night, Rivers mentioned the focus on optimizing the second unit’s offense, particularly through Kyle Kuzma’s ability to create plays, signals a shift in priorities. Jackson Jr., whose offensive limitations have long been a concern, appears to have been pushed further down the pecking order in favor of a more offensively focused play style.
The Statistical Case for Jackson Jr.
Jackson’s struggles on offense are well-documented. His season averages reflect a player who has yet to carve out a consistent offensive niche. This season, he has averaged just 3.7 points in 16.5 minutes per game, shooting 46.9% from the field and 38.6% from three-point range. While those numbers don’t jump off the page, his impact on defense is and has been undeniable.
His ability to guard multiple positions, hustle for rebounds, and provide energy off the bench has been a hallmark of his game. However, Rivers’ recent rotations suggest that the coaching staff values offensive versatility more in the second unit, which has limited Jackson’s opportunities.
Is There Still a Role for Jackson Jr.?
Given Jackson’s reputation as one of the team’s most tenacious defenders, it’s worth questioning whether he could still be a valuable asset in specific matchups. The challenge for Jackson moving forward will be proving that he can contribute without being a liability on offense. His shooting mechanics have shown improvement, but his role in the Bucks’ half-court offense remains unclear. If the coaching staff can find a way to utilize his strengths while minimizing his weaknesses, he could still play a meaningful role, particularly in games where perimeter defense is a priority.
Long-Term Implications
With the Bucks in win-now mode, player development is often secondary to immediate results. Jackson, at just 23 years old, is still raw and has room to grow. However, the Bucks’ recent midseason acquisitions, including Kuzma and Kevin Porter Jr., have made it harder for him to secure consistent minutes.
If Rivers and the coaching staff remain committed to using him as a defensive specialist in situational matchups, there could still be a path for Jackson to contribute. But if his offensive struggles continue to limit his opportunities, the Bucks may eventually have to decide whether he fits into their long-term vision.
For now, Jackson’s role remains fluid. Whether that changes in the coming weeks will likely depend on how well he can adapt to the team’s evolving needs.
Photo credit: © Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
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