
Dragan Bender
The most notable name on this list without a doubt, Dragan Bender is looking to factor into the Bucks’ plans for the entire 2019-20 season.
By all intents and purposes, Bender stands as the 15th and final player on the Bucks’ roster after signing a two-year, partially guaranteed deal in late July. However, it’s the structure of that deal that raises some questions over just how long his stay in the Cream City will be, given the number of guarantee dates that are included in his contract.
The first key date comes on opening night and it only raises the importance for Bender to find his footing within the Bucks’ system and put together a solid training camp, at the very minimum.
If he isn’t able to do the latter, all of those fighting for a spot on the Bucks’ opening night roster know Bender is the one that’s the least secure and the most susceptible of being knocked off in camp. That sentiment applies to the two-way players the Bucks picked up this offseason between Frank Mason III and Cam Reynolds, who could see their two-way contracts get converted for a standard NBA deal if they really impress.
As interesting of a play as it is with the Bucks picking up a reclamation project like Bender, if he isn’t able to pass the test and adjust to a philosophy and developmental system that’s well suited for him throughout camp and preseason, it may cause the Bucks to look elsewhere.