The 2019-20 season for the Milwaukee Bucks was an accomplished one, but it also was a season fans want to forget. Another year, another exit before the Finals in two straight years of having the one seed. What must change? Who must the Bucks target?
For starters, take a look at the Miami series. The Bucks lacked players who could create their own shot, so naturally, one might guess that will be a priority in the offseason. Another point of emphasis was the lack of depth down low. They could opt to play Giannis more at center, decreasing minutes for Lopez but opening up the floor. That does not seem likely, so a big man could also be in the fold.
Even though the Bucks hold pick number 24, there is still a room to find a late round gem for next season. Without factoring in possible free agents, let’s take a look at three players that can bring change to Milwaukee.
For the purposes of this article, the focus will be on three different players: a player that could fit the mold of a high volume scorer, a more consistent 3-and-D type player, and someone who could be seen as the steal of the draft at 24.
Target #1: Tyrese Maxey (Kentucky)
Do you like high-upside guards from big programs? Me, too. Maxey (19) spent his one-and-done year playing for Kentucky, and he turned heads constantly. He showed his ability be a high volume scorer (6 games of 20+) and willingness to take on a large role on the defensive end. His shooting may be a concern, but there is little concern in regards to playing off the dribble and also relying on his athleticism. Maxey possesses the unique ability to change possessions in an instant. According to recent mock drafts, Maxey has a great chance to be picked well before 24, but some recent mocks have had him going as low as 22 to Denver. Barring a lottery selection, his services could be there for the taking for Milwaukee.
New breakdown analyzing why Tyrese Maxey's ability to play out of quick-hitting actions like the Kentucky guards before him makes him an ideal fit in today's NBA. pic.twitter.com/kZSMgk5lNy
— Mike Schmitz (@Mike_Schmitz) September 26, 2020
Target #2: Aaron Nesmith (Vanderbilt)
Nesmith is another player that has a high chance of going immediately after the lottery. The Vanderbilt product was a stallworth on the defensive end. Despite playing in only 14 games last season, he averaged 23 points per game, along with 5 rebounds, while shooting 52% from 3 point range. Standing at 6’6”, he can play along the perimeter and may be able to mix it up on the block defensively. This could be a great addition to make up for the loss of Marvin Wiliams, too.
*Another note: Nesmith is from Charleston, South Carolina and attended Porter Gaud School. So did Khris Middleton.
Another shotmaking clinic last night from Vanderbilt's Aaron Nesmith (34pts). Seven 3s, mostly off movement/actions. Flashed some slashing, postup scoring ability. The 6-6 wing now averaging 26 under coach Jerry Stackhouse. pic.twitter.com/Xl1vVITOZy
— Jonathan Wasserman (@NBADraftWass) November 15, 2019
Target #3: Theo Maledon (France)
If available at 24, Theo Maledon could be the steal of the draft for Milwaukee. At just 19 years old, he has already shown potential as being a dynamic playmaker. After looking at some of his tape, one can tell he moves his feet so naturally, so he would be able to find a spot in Budenholzer’s rotation. His scoring is not as lethal as some other top point guards, but he can still create for himself, something the Bucks desperately need. A young guard with unlocked potential would slide right in with Bledsoe and Hill, vying for minutes while also learning from two experienced veterans. This would be an ideal fit for him and the Bucks, and it could change their point guard rotation.
This pass from Theo Maledon is wild pic.twitter.com/dNnD8NpMno
— NBA Draft Central (@NBADC_) June 3, 2020
The NBA Draft is currently scheduled for November 18th, 2020, conducted at ESPN’s studio in Bristol, Connecticut.
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