Much like any contender entering the upcoming season, the Milwaukee Bucks will have to face a set of challenges to come out victorious as champions. According to an NBA analysis, though, there’s one major problem that they’ll have to solve right away.
Just recently, the Bucks have officially filled their 2024-25 training camp roster, becoming the fifth NBA team to do so. The team signed James Akinjo and Liam Robbins to Exhibit 10 deals. Akinjo, a 6-1 point guard, showcased his skills during the summer league, averaging 4 points in limited minutes. Robbins, a 7-foot center, missed the summer league due to injury but has a strong collegiate background, earning accolades at Vanderbilt.
These additions join Philip Alston, who also signed an Exhibit 10 contract. If Alston finalizes his deal, the Bucks will have a complete roster of 21 players, consisting of 15 standard contracts and three two-way players.
This offseason, the Bucks have made significant moves to enhance their roster, including the signings of veteran players Delon Wright and Gary Trent Jr., aimed at addressing their previous weaknesses in depth and defense. Their starting lineup features stars like point guard Damian Lillard, Khris Middleton, and two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Milwaukee Bucks’ Major Problem Emphasized in NBA Analysis Ahead of 2024-25 Season
Although the NBA won’t return yet, there are some issues Milwaukee will have to resolve as early as now. The biggest one was discussed by Eric Pincus for Bleacher Report.
“Even landing three solid players on minimum contracts (Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince and Delon Wright), the Bucks don’t have the depth. Antetokounmpo is good enough to keep pace with the rest of the East over the regular season, and Lillard is one of his generation’s elite scorers.
Injuries have diminished Khris Middleton’s game, and the team hasn’t been as competitive since he started to fall off. While Jrue Holiday isn’t as explosive as Lillard, the Bucks miss his backcourt defense badly,” Pincus wrote.
Despite their successful regular seasons, the Bucks have faced playoff disappointments in recent years, prompting a focus on building a robust bench. Of course, the team must also find a way to weather through the injuries, especially to their key players.
The team’s financial commitments are substantial, with projected luxury tax payments nearing $75 million this season. As they head into training camp, the Bucks aim to solidify their roster and improve their postseason performance.
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