Jerryd Bayless
2015-16 Key Stats:10.4 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 3.1 apg
2015-16 Cap Hit: $3 million
Like the aforementioned Vasquez and Mayo, Jerryd Bayless is yet another combo guard brought in to provide perimeter shooting and bench scoring. Like Mayo, the former Arizona Wildcat saw time at starting point guard and reserve two-guard.
Unlike the previous two players, Bayless was at large, a success in filling this role. Shooting nearly 43 percent from three-point range was largely unexpected but a welcome boost from a player with a career 36.5 percentage.
Bayless’ behind the arc efficiency was even more impressive when one considers it came on 4.4 attempts per game, a career high.
Some regression to the mean is to be expected, but chances are the Bucks will want to bring back a mature player who can shoot the three, play both guard positions, and provide leadership.
None of this is to say bringing him back will be easy, as the rest of the league surely took notice of his shooting exploits. Bayless stands to make much more than the $3 million he earned last season, and given that he is an unrestricted free agent, retaining him may be difficult.
In spite of this, the Bucks front office should do everything within reason to ensure he ends up back in a Bucks uniform next season.
Final Verdict: Re-sign
Next: Miles Plumlee