While other teams made a big splash in free agency this year, the Milwaukee Bucks had a low-key performance during the offseason. Turns out, these additions may make the Giannis Antetokounmpo-led squad ahead of the 2024-25 NBA campaign.
The Bucks just had a surprisingly effective offseason, strategically addressing their roster needs after a disappointing playoff exit. Many attributed their early postseason departure to Antetokounmpo’s injury, which sidelined him during the first round. While injuries played a role, the team faced deeper issues, lacking the necessary role players to complement their star lineup, which includes Antetokounmpo, All-Star guard Damian Lillard, Brook Lopez, and Khris Middleton.
During the 2024 NBA Draft, the Bucks added promising rookies AJ Johnson and Tyler Smith, both of whom are expected to bring youthful energy to the squad. Although their immediate impact may be limited, their potential to develop could help lower the team’s average age.
In addition to the draft picks, the Bucks have signed several veterans to minimum contracts, including Delon Wright and Gary Trent Jr. While these players come with specific limitations—Wright is a defensive specialist and Trent is known for his offensive contributions—they can thrive within the Bucks’ established system.
Moreover, Taurean Prince was brought in to fill a crucial gap as a two-way forward, providing both shooting and defense. His versatility should enhance the team’s performance, especially in critical playoff situations.
Milwaukee Bucks Warns NBA Rivals About Their New Additions for The 2024-25 Season
While they disappointed a few months ago, Milwaukee appears to be laser-focused on getting a different result for next season. This can be seen in a post shared by the team’s official account on X.
Coming soon… pic.twitter.com/KNipJEoQll
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) August 26, 2024
Although losing Malik Beasley and Patrick Beverley during the offseason affected the team’s backcourt, the addition of Trent, Wright, and Prince yielded more benefits to the team. The latter in particular, offers a more credible option on offense after his stints with the Portland Trail Blazers and Toronto Raptors have proven so.
Overall, these moves position the Bucks better for the upcoming season, addressing past weaknesses and potentially setting them up to compete more effectively against other Eastern Conference teams like the Celtics and 76ers. As seen in Milwaukee’s warning to the league, other teams must take notice of them in the coming months.
For More Wisconsin Sports:
Follow us on Twitter at @WiSportsHeroics. Also, check out our Merchandise Here! Get 20% off with the code “WSH.” To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Wisconsin sports, click here! Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee Bucks, Wisconsin Badgers.
