Joe Ingles, the backup that can change the game for the Bucks

There are sometimes small moves in the NBA, on the margins, which would go almost unnoticed and actually turn out to be decisive several months later. Like when the Golden State Warriors preferred Gary Payton II to the experienced Avery Bradley ahead of the 2021-2022 season. When the Milwaukee Bucks signed Joe Ingles last July, it eventually caused enthusiasts and analysts to react briefly. But without holding their attention either.

After all, the Aussie remains a 35-year-old veteran who has gone a year without playing a game due to torn knee ligaments. Who knows in what state he would return. Then the season started, NBA news took over. And almost no one saw the return of Ingles coming and the impact it could have on the Wisconsin franchise.

Not yet operational at the start of the year, it returned to the field on December 19th. He has only played 10 games so far, but Monday night’s game against the New York Knicks was probably one of the most successful and encouraging. He was lined up on the floor for 28 minutes, the time to register 17 points – his best total this season – to take 3 rebounds and distribute 5 assists.

Joe Ingles especially led the revolt and the heroic comeback of the Bucks, led by 17 points in the second half. The 2021 NBA champions came back to score with outside baskets and he planted 5 (in 11 attempts) on his own. A performance that serves as a reminder of what the former Utah Jazz back can bring to a team as ambitious as Milwaukee.

He had already compiled 14 points and 10 assists against the Minnesota Timberwolves a few days ago. But these are still isolated bursts between a series of much less flattering performances. His raw stats remain weak with 6 points, 34% on shots and 32% from behind the arc. Nothing illogical for a player who simply needs to pick up the pace. And it just gives the impression of regaining sensations gradually.

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He already returns the feeling that he can help in this workforce. The Bucks are really armed once full. But they are missing (missing?) one or two solid basketball players to densify their rotation beyond the usual top-7. Joe Ingles has what it takes to fulfill this role. He’s not fast, let alone after his injury, but he’s cunning. Technical. Adroit. Good passer. He’s not a hitchhiker but he’s got size and a bit of vice. He is an interesting creator off the bench and a complementary player likely to be associated with Giannis Antetokounmpo, Chris Middleton and or Jrue Holiday.

“It’s great to have a guy like Joe who can create, put in important shots and organize the game on offense. He has a lot of experience, with his ten years in the NBA and all the FIBA ​​tournaments he has played. He knows basketball. I’m happy he’s in our team,” said the Greek.

Bucks executives need to be happy, too. Those of their direct competitors may regret not having looked into the matter. Because if Joe Ingles is not yet very regular for the moment, a bit like his team, he is gathering rhythm. And it may well weigh from April.