Bucks’ Thon Maker throws a block party in Toronto (Video)

The Bucks and Raptors squared off in Game 1 of their first round playoff series on Saturday. To the surprise of some, rookie Thon Maker started the game and made flashy contributions.

Thon Maker has worked with Kevin Garnett during much of this season. Garnett has stated that he believes that Maker will be an MVP in the league one day and lauds his potential and work ethic.

The raw 20-year-old (yes, 20!) has managed to start 34 games this year but only averaged 9.9 minutes per game. Maker has shown flashes of what he can become, and he flashed brightly against the Raptors on Saturday.

First came a nasty block against Raptors star point guard Kyle Lowry:

Later in the quarter, Maker disrespected star shooting guard DeMar DeRozan:

Through the third quarter, Maker only had four points on two shots and those were his only two blocks. But those big plays swung the momentum of the game and helped the Bucks gain the lead in the third quarter despite Giannis Antetokounmpo getting into foul trouble.

To make real contributions in a playoff series is a good sign for the young South Sudan native. Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas was too strong for him at times, but Maker wasn’t embarrassed by him. He started each half and looked as if he belonged on the court when he played.

Maker earned his minutes in Milwaukee this season. He shot 37.8 percent from three this season, cooling off slightly after a blistering hot start. That number is very good for a big man, and he gained confidence in his all around game as the season went on.

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In addition, Maker gave the Bucks a presence at the rim they have lacked with Greg Monroe not providing much in that category. If he continues to improve going forward and his flashes of potential become consistent contributions then Milwaukee will make deep playoff runs in the future.