Grading Wesley Matthews’ newly signed deal with the Milwaukee Bucks

The Milwaukee Bucks certainly surprised everyone yesterday after signing Wisconsin native and former Buck Wesley Matthews to a deal out of the blue. Everything about this deal is interesting, whether it be the timing, value, corresponding moves, or any other factor. There is no shortage of things to unpack here, so let us take a look at the financial value of Matthews’ deal, his fit, his role, and an overall grade for the move.

The financial value of Wesley Matthews’ deal with the Milwaukee Bucks

This deal was initially announced with no financial specifics attached, but The Athletic’s Eric Nehm cleared things up by later stating that it would be a non-guaranteed deal. Many expected that a non-guaranteed contract would be the case here, which is the best thing possible for the Bucks. A non-guarantee means that they can cut Matthews by a specific date before his salary will become fully guaranteed. Given the team’s current financial situation, that will give them some flexibility in the future, no matter how this experiment plays out.

It is the same set of circumstances the team faces with DeMarcus Cousins, who they also brought in this week. These deals make any signing a low-risk, potentially high-reward move for teams in a difficult spot financially looking to add some depth. Bringing in Matthews might not be the most glamorous signing for the defending champs, but adding a seasoned veteran on a cheap deal such as this one is an understandable move for the front office. Financially, there is nothing to dislike at the moment because this deal is non-guaranteed.