While the Milwaukee Bucks are still focused on the 2024 NBA Playoffs, they also got some news with regards to this year’s draft.
Because the Bucks and Phoenix Suns finished with a similar 49-33 record, the NBA had to break the tie to determine who’ll pick first between them.
NBA Breaks Tie Between Milwaukee Bucks, Phoenix Suns for NBA Draft
The NBA released its tiebreaker results for the 2024 Draft on Monday, with the Bucks winning the tiebreaker over the Suns. As a result, Milwaukee got the no. 21 pick, while the Suns take the no. 22 pick.
Interestingly, though, the New Orleans Pelicans own a pick swap with the Bucks due to the Jrue Holiday trade they did back in 2020. To recall, in a four-team deal involving the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder, Milwaukee acquired Holiday and sent multiple players and picks in the process.
The deal included two first-round pick swaps with Milwaukee; hence, the 2023 swap between the two teams.
Because the Bucks will pick higher than the Pelicans, it will be conveyed. Having said that, Milwaukee will end up picking no. 23 while New Orleans gets the 21st selection.
“The Milwaukee Bucks will have the No. 21 pick, while the Phoenix Suns will have the No. 22 pick. The Pelicans will have the No. 23 pick, and Nos. 21 and 23 are a swap between Milwaukee and New Orleans, as part of the Jrue Holiday trade in 2020,” Jonathan Givony of ESPN explained.
Milwaukee Bucks’ Needs in 2024-25
While it might still be early to talk about the draft considering the Milwaukee Bucks are still in the playoffs and fighting to make another championship run, their needs and shortcomings throughout the season are clear. With that being said, the draft could be an opportunity for them to address those issues and maybe start building for the future.
The Bucks are in need of a perimeter defender, as they were never able to replace Jrue Holiday. They could also use a pass-first point guard who could help facilitate the offense, especially when Damian Lillard sits. Milwaukee could really use some variety on offense instead of leaning more on isolation plays with Dame and Giannis leading the way.
Of course the Bucks might be better off looking at the free agency and trade market in addressing those needs, especially if they are in a rush and want high-impact players who can contribute right away.
Maybe the Bucks can simply trade their pick to make it happen. Besides, the 2024 class is considered a bit weak compared to previous years.
Regardless of what they decide to do, however, the offseason will surely be interesting for the Bucks.
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