Milwaukee Bucks: NBA Trade Deadline Outlook
By Adam McGee
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For a team whose long-term cap outlook needs to be managed very carefully due to the big money they’re already paying and will again have to pay other core roster pieces, the value of players who can contribute immediately and will remain on rookie scale deals for the next few years can’t be overstated.
Less than a year after the fact, the Bucks would already have to be considering the possibility that they emerged from the 2016 NBA Draft with two long term pieces.
Malcolm Brogdon has proven that he has the kind of high IQ necessary to manage an NBA game, even as a rookie. Brogdon has thrived in spots as a starter, has been a fundamental member of the second unit, and generally elevated the performance of those around him in spite of his relative lack of NBA experience. Already shooting above 40 percent from deep, a willing playmaker and a fundamentally sound defender, Brogdon will be a key piece in Milwaukee for many years to come.
Although the rookie process has moved at a slower pace for Thon Maker, the early signs show that he’s managing his body well and learning from the experiences he has had and the lessons passed on from those around him. Maker is now getting the opportunity to start in the aftermath of Jabari’s injury, and he’s showing real signs of promise. Maker has shown good touch inside, is shooting a remarkable 48.4 percent from behind the arc and showing just how influential he can be as a rim protector around the paint.
Maker and Brogdon could have considerable importance to the Bucks long-term, so, don’t expect them to be going anywhere any time soon.