The Milwaukee Bucks have given extended minutes to some of its younger players due to the team's injury woes.

"We were forced into it," said general manager John Hammond. "It wasn't the plan. Sometimes you are forced to change in midstream, so to speak. That's kind of what happened to us. We've put the young players out there. We're excited about their progress. The most important thing is they continue to improve now as the season progresses."

With a high pick in the 2014 NBA Draft forthcoming, Hammond has been spending more time scouting prospects.

"I can say for myself, I'm out (scouting) more than I have been in the past. What we're looking at at this point is a potentially prominent pick. Our hope, like any other team in a position like this, is to add a player that can help us and be a building-block piece. We've had a chance to see the top-tier first-round players and we will continue to do so as the season continues. This is the most important time. You have chances to watch guys (college players) practice and watch guys play."