Milwaukee Bucks’ Larry Sanders in for a bounce-back season?

Jan 2, 2014; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Milwaukee Bucks center Larry Sanders (8) leaves the court after losing to the Utah Jazz 96-87 at EnergySolutions Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2014; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Milwaukee Bucks center Larry Sanders (8) leaves the court after losing to the Utah Jazz 96-87 at EnergySolutions Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /
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After a strong 2012-2013 season in which he averaged 9.8 points, 9.5 rebounds and 2.8 blocks per game and was one of the better interior defensive players in basketball, the Milwaukee Bucks rewarded big man Larry Sanders with a four-year, $44 million deal. However, because of off the court incidents, injuries and frustration, Sanders regressed last season and has left many wondering if he’s worth the deal he signed.

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John Zitzler of Basketball Insiders believes Sanders could be in for a bounce-back season.

"Sanders traveled to Las Vegas and worked out with the Bucks’ Summer League team after being cleared to return to the court. The team’s young players like Jabari Parker and Giannis Antetokounmpo said that Sanders was extremely helpful in Vegas, offering advice to the young players and spending a ton of time with them.Sanders should be fully healthy and ready to go by the start of the season. If Sanders can avoid injuries and remain focused, don’t be surprised to see the fiery center once again playing at a high level for Milwaukee."

Sanders played in just 23 games last season because of injuries and off of the court issues. He averaged 7.7 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.7 blocks in 25.4 minutes per game while shooting 46.9% from the field and 47.3% from the free throw line last season. In his four-year career, he’s gone for 6.4 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game while shooting 47.7% from the field and 55.9% from the free throw line.

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