Two potential candidates for acquisition through the buyout market stand out for the Milwaukee Bucks post the 2024 NBA trade deadline, aiming to provide additional support for Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.
The Bucks face limitations in enhancing their roster due to the absence of tradable first-round picks resulting from previous deals involving Jrue Holiday and Damian Lillard. Additionally, their position deep within the second apron restricts them from signing a buyout market player earning more than the midlevel exception, approximately $12 million.
If the Bucks choose to explore the buyout market, Danuel House Jr. and/or Cory Joseph emerge as promising options. Despite recent trades, including sending Cameron Payne and a second-round pick to the Philadelphia 76ers for Patrick Beverley, and dealing Robin Lopez to the Sacramento Kings to create roster space and save luxury tax funds, the team could benefit from more reinforcements.
While Beverley’s acquisition addresses some needs, players like House Jr. and Joseph could make immediate contributions to bolster the team’s championship aspirations.
Danuel House Jr., a forward, represents a viable option for the Bucks. The team has the ability to sign him, and his presence would address the shortage of wing defenders, complementing Jae Crowder and potentially Pat Connaughton. Though not an All-Defensive caliber player, House brings defensive competence, an improvement over some current Bucks players.
House’s offensive skills, despite a recent dip in three-point shooting (30%), make him a valuable asset. With a career 35.9% three-point shooting average, he can make plays off the dribble, offering a dynamic offensive dimension. His familiarity with Coach Doc Rivers, who previously coached him at the Sixers, adds to the appeal. House could find a meaningful role in Milwaukee, contributing both defensively and offensively.
Cory Joseph, a guard, is another buyout market candidate. While the Bucks recently acquired Patrick Beverley, Joseph’s inclusion would provide essential depth. A reliable backup point guard, Joseph is known for his defensive prowess and competent shooting. Despite a dip in three-point shooting this season (31%), his career average of 34.9% indicates consistent competence.
Considering Beverley’s age (35), Joseph could serve as a valuable defensive-minded guard, ensuring stability in case of injuries to key players like Beverley, Lillard, or Malik Beasley. While Beverley might assume the backup point guard role, having another player in a similar defensive mold like Joseph would offer insurance and strengthen the team’s overall depth.
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