NBA News: Bucks Recall Greg Monroe To Bulk Up Title Defense

KEY POINTS

Greg Monroe returns to Milwaukee, hoping that his stint will last until the end of the season
Monroe's current stats may fall short of going beyond a 10-day deal with the Bucks
Bucks opt to acquire Monroe to help out Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis

The Milwaukee Bucks are addressing their big man needs, aware it will be crucial come the NBA postseason.

After adding DeMarcus Cousins in November, the defending NBA champions have welcomed back Greg Monroe in the fold on a 10-day contract, ESPN reported.

The 31-year-old has had opportunities with the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Washington Wizards before the Bucks deal was announced.

His production was far from satisfying, so Monroe will have to exert more effort if he wants to go beyond the 10-day route.

So far, Monroe has officially played only five games combined for the Timberwolves and the Wizards.

He managed to average 5.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, and a block in only 16.2 minutes of action.

His last piece of NBA action was back in 2019, splitting the season with three teams (Toronto Raptors, Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers).

He hardly made an impact and is a far cry from the Greg Monroe of old who had his best years with the Detroit Pistons from 2010 to 2015.

The odds are undoubtedly up against the 6-foot-10 cager. Regardless, he revealed to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that he is excited and ready to play.

“I’ve gotten in a full season. I’m ready to play. It’s just about getting caught up with exactly what they do here. I’m definitely ready to play. Excited to be back here. Looking forward to getting out there,” said Monroe, who played for the Bucks from 2015 to 2017.

“It’s fun being back. Loved being here. Just feels good. Excited to play with these guys and excited to get back to Milwaukee, too, and play in front of those fans as well,” he added.

If he comes up with an acceptable performance, Monroe could get a similar package to Cousins.

Hence, the immediate goal for Monroe is to last until the end of the 2021-22 season.

Monroe, similar to Cousins, is expected to provide Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis some breathing room inside.

With Brook Lopez out, it will be interesting if the two veteran centers can help the Bucks successfully defend their NBA title.