In a flurry of moves in the last few days, the Milwaukee Bucks have seen multiple players come and go on Exhibit 10 deals. Unfortunately, the players never had a real chance of making the NBA roster, but signing the contract was a potentially lucrative decision. Exhibit 10 deals carry a chance earning a $50k bonus depending on how long the player stays as an affiliate.
To better understand Exhibit 10 deals and what it means for players, here is an in-depth analysis of what the Bucks did.
Bucks Strategically Sign/Waive Players
The image of cutting players a day after signing them isn’t good, so clearly there should be a reason. The Bucks didn’t make four mistakes, but rather they cut the players to give them a chance at making extra money.
The Bucks signed Alex Antetokounmpo, Rob Edwards, Ibou Badji, and Iverson Molinar over the last few days. Each player signed an Exhibit 10 deal, which is a completely non-guaranteed one year contract. Days later all four players were cut, initiating the second half of the deal.
When a player signs an Exhibit 10 deal it starts a process. If the player is cut before the start of the season, and spends 60 days with the team’s G-League affiliate (The Herd) they can earn up to $50k. The money is given to players in the form of a bonus. Realistically, the contract promises players another chance. The plan for the Bucks is to retain all four on the Herd’s roster. The Bucks have now cut down to 19 players under contract.
The Bucks Restock the G-League
If a better opportunity arises, all four players can still pursue them. The Bucks still own their G-League rights, however. This means the players can only participate for the Herd. While they have been waived they are all under a “ghost contract”. Essentially, they can become Two-way players at any time for the Bucks and the Herd. The Bucks are limited to a total of six Exhibit 10 players at any time.
Along with the financial side, the contract also gives players access to the team camps. All four players were able to secure an extended tryout with the Bucks through this contract. The NBA is a tough league and talent will make its way onto rosters. This process is a good way to store talent for the future.
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