Bobby Portis believes the Milwaukee Bucks’ “camaraderie and chemistry is just not there at all”

Bobby says the Bucks have a lot of work to do regarding their chemistry.

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All is not well with the Milwaukee Bucks. With the spotlight shining on them after they acquired seven-time All-Star Damian Lillard, Milwaukee has wilted, falling to 5-4 after getting thrashed by the Orlando Magic, 112-97, on Saturday night. After the game, Bucks sparkplug Bobby Portis shared that he doesn’t feel the team’s chemistry is up to par just yet.

Lack of chemistry is showing on the court

Eight-year veteran Bobby Portis didn’t mince his words in describing the Bucks’ woes early in the season, saying that the team lacks chemistry.

“I think just, for the most part, our camaraderie and chemistry is just not there at all,” Portis said.

Whether it’s the lack of ball movement or communication on defense, it’s been clear that the Bucks are a step behind on the court. Even with their star-studded lineup, they have yet to find a way to gel and maximize their potential.

“I think it’s kind of obvious on the court. I think that will take a minute. We don’t want it to take too long — but we’ll figure it out here soon, hopefully. We’re just trying to figure out one another,” Portis added.

"You just can't throw guys on the court and expect it to work Day 1, this ain't 2K." #Bucks forward Bobby Portis on building chemistry with a new-look roster. #FearTheDeer pic.twitter.com/KMDn56LJow

— Bally Sports Wisconsin (@BallySportWI) November 6, 2023

Getting used to new things

Aside from the presence of seven-time All-NBA team member Damian Lillard, who the Bucks acquired in a blockbuster trade a few weeks before the season started, Milwaukee is also getting used to having a new tactician on the bench—Adrian Griffin.

Portis, who nearly averaged a double-double off the bench last season, is averaging 11.7 points and 5.8 boards per game in 21 minutes of action—five minutes less than what he played through last season.

“New things that Coach wants that we’re trying to implement and focus on and things like that, which kind of goes away from how we used to play. We’re trying to figure it out and trying to get to it, trusting in what he wants and then just doing the things that asked of us,” Portis shared.

Bobby Portis hit a tough jumper and celebrated with fans courtside. Energy in Milwaukee 💯

Pistons-Bucks | Live on the NBA App
📲 : https://t.co/SR7GXx6cxC pic.twitter.com/jvsfDWLw9I

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Khris Middleton says the Milwaukee Bucks have to “figure out a way to win games and play together”