Milwaukee Bucks: Potential Addition of Three-Time NBA Champion for Improved Depth
The Milwaukee Bucks fell short of their goals for the 2023-24 NBA season. Despite acquiring Damian Lillard late in the offseason, the combination of Lillard, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and rookie head coach Adrian Griffin was expected to dominate the league and contend in the Eastern Conference.
However, things didn’t pan out as hoped. Lillard and Giannis struggled to develop the necessary on-court chemistry. Coach Griffin quickly lost the locker room and fan support, resulting in his mid-season firing. Moreover, the Bucks’ bench failed to provide the needed support during critical moments.
Milwaukee Bucks’ Struggle with Injuries and Bench Performance
Even before Doc Rivers took over as head coach, the Bucks were plagued by injuries. After Rivers replaced Griffin, Giannis, Lillard, and Khris Middleton only managed to play six games together.
With their star players frequently sidelined, Milwaukee had to depend on bench players like Bobby Portis, Pat Connaughton, Patrick Beverley, and Jae Crowder. As the regular season neared its end, it became evident that these players couldn’t adequately replace the injured starters.
Looking ahead to next season, it’s clear that Crowder will not return. Beverley has expressed a desire to re-sign with the Bucks but seeks a pay raise that Milwaukee can’t afford, given their budget constraints. Portis and Connaughton, both under contract, are Milwaukee’s best trade assets, aside from the untouchable Khris Middleton. They could potentially be traded for better shooters or defenders.
Milwaukee Bucks Eyeing Local Three-Time NBA Champion in Free Agency
As general manager Jon Horst plans for next season, it’s evident the Bucks need more shooters who can also defend well and a reliable backup center. The Bucks’ first-round loss to the Indiana Pacers highlighted that a trio of big men isn’t sufficient. Giannis, Brook Lopez, and Portis are solid, but the team suffers if any of them are injured.
The Bucks can only afford to sign free agents willing to accept veteran minimum contracts. A recent report suggests that Kevon Looney, a three-time NBA champion from Milwaukee, will soon be available and could be signed for such an amount. Tim Kawakami of The Athletic mentioned on the Warriors Plus Minus podcast that Looney is expected to be released and will be sought after by other teams for a low salary.
Even if Portis remains with the team, Looney would be a valuable addition to the Bucks’ bench. Last season, in a mostly reserve role, the Hamilton High School alum averaged 4.5 points and 5.7 rebounds in 16.3 minutes per game. As a starter in the 2022-23 season, he averaged 7.0 points and 9.3 rebounds per game.
Although Looney isn’t a shooter, his defensive skills and rebounding ability off the bench would address a key deficiency from last season. A homecoming to Milwaukee for Looney could be a strategic move for the Bucks.
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