G Michael Redd has been a model of consistency on the scoring end of the floor the last five seasons. To wit: last season he averaged 22.7 points after averaging 26.7, 25.4, 23 and 21.7 points the previous four seasons.

F Richard Jefferson figures to bring a lot to the Bucks' table. Not only is he regarded as one of the best all-around players at his position, Jefferson is also a winner. He has played in postseason competition in six of his seven years in the NBA, the sole exception being last season. Jefferson has also played in two NBA Finals. His playoff experience should be invaluable for the Bucks.

F Charlie Villanueva could be at a crossroads in his career. The seventh overall pick in the 2005 NBA draft by Toronto, Villanueva has an abundance of talent but has yet to display it on a consistent basis.

C Andrew Bogut has shown steady improvement in each of his first three seasons in the NBA and is expected to take his game to another level under Skiles, who has vowed to take full advantage of Bogut's myriad skills.

ANALYZING KEY RESERVES:

G Charlie Bell was a solid contributor two seasons ago but barely made an impact last season. Bell is the Bucks' best perimeter defender and is capable of playing both the point and shooting guard spots.

F Malik Allen played two seasons with the Bulls when Skiles was the Bulls coach and is quite familiar with his system. Skiles also likes Allen's no-nonsense approach and conscientious attitude.

C Dan Gadzuric has served as Bogut's backup the last three seasons and will likely to do so again this season. While Gadzuric lacks an offensive game, he is a strong defender.

F Joe Alexander has looked lost at times in preseason games, but the eighth overall pick in last June's NBA draft has a big upside.

MEDICAL WATCH: The Bucks have some minor ailments, although G Luke Ridnour's sore right knee bears watching. Ridnour has tendinitis in his right knee and that caused him to sit out some preseason games.