After spending one season with the Milwaukee Bucks, Wesley Matthews can potentially enter free agency if he opts out of his current deal.
In need of some support at the shooting guard position last offseason, Giannis Antetokounmpo knew Wesley Matthews was the right man for the Milwaukee Bucks.
After a persuasive phone call by Giannis, Matthews signed a two-year deal worth just north of $5.2 million with Milwaukee. The contract proved to be an absolute bargain in the swingman’s first season with the Bucks, as the full-time starter put together a stellar campaign.
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Over his 67 appearances, the 33-year-old averaged 7.4 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game with .396/.364/76.5 shooting splits. With so many talented pieces alongside him offensively, Matthews’ scoring output was a career-worst over his ongoing 11-year career, but his role on this team went far beyond the stat sheet in terms of impact.
Even off the court, Matthews has made his presence felt in a big way. Just weeks ago, the guard gave the largest donation ever by a professional athlete to the MACC (Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer) Fund. It was a genuine gesture from the Wisconsin native that only furthered his fan-favorite status as the hometown hero.
Now, Matthews has a decision to make with his near $2.7 million player option for next season. If he opts in, the 33-year-old will spend another season contending for an NBA championship with the Milwaukee Bucks. If he elects to decline and test the free agent waters, there will likely be no shortage of suitors eyeing the veteran.
From the Milwaukee Bucks’ point of view, here is what to buy and sell on Wesley Matthews in he enters free agency this offseason.