Free agency has bit the Milwaukee Bucks’ stash of wing defenders and guards: Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, Ryan Rollins, Kevin Porter Jr. Prince isn’t a guy they should worry about retaining, but he is nonetheless a wing-sized body and the rest were key cogs. Can they re-sign them all? One team analyst suggested an underrated free agency option to address the roster’s lack of wing depth, forward Jake LaRavia of the Grizzlies and Kings.
Already Endowed with Solid Skills, Jake LaRavia Could Be Poised for Further Growth in Year Four
In three NBA seasons, LaRavia, 23, has not enjoyed the best of health. He remains, though, an intriguing talent. Flipped from Memphis to Sacramento last year, he played a career-high 66 games. While his scoring volume fell, his efficiency shot up.
In 20 minutes per game, LaRavia averaged 6.9 points, 3.9 rebounds and 2.4 assists. He shot 47.5% from the field and 42.3% from distance. Is that genuine improvement, or just a fluke? He came into the year as a 34% career three-point shooter.
Boasting both a stepback bag and lob threat hops, LaRavia is deceptively agile though he could work on his lateral quickness. He also has a surprising handle. A solid 6-foot-7, he has the size to guard a range of positions and is recognized as a strong defender overall.
Co-host of the Locked On Bucks podcast, analyst Camille Davis believes believes his free agency price tag is something to watch.
Milwaukee Bucks Should Monitor LaRavia Market This Summer
Playing on a four-year, $14.8 million rookie contract when dealt to the Kings, LaRavia had his $5.2 million team option declined for 2025-26. Based on his financial history, he could be a low-cost, high-value signing.
“I’m interested to see what the market looks like for him,” Monae ventured. “He kind of broke out a little bit while he was with Sacramento.”
She also mentioned Pelicans free agent Brandon Boston. He too is 23 and had his player option declined.
“Both of them are pretty young. So those are two names I’m like, ‘What’s the market value for him?’ And I’d be interested to see them in a Bucks jersey if the number is right. But again, they’re both really young players, so who knows what that value will be like for them in free agency.”
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