Milwaukee Bucks: 5 takeaways from Jon Horst’s offseason presser

Milwaukee Bucks: 5 takeaways from Jon Horst’s offseason presser – 5. Brook Lopez seems unlikely to be traded

Brook Lopez has been an integral component of the Milwaukee Bucks’ top-tier system, especially defensively, ever since arriving to the organization under head coach Mike Budenholzer. Lopez continues to be undervalued, and Jon Horst went out of his way to praise him on his defensive abilities to cleanse the paint, protect the rim, and anchor an elite defense.

Here’s what Horst had to say about Brook Lopez:

"“He does feel great, he looks great, he tests great so from a health perspective, he’s doing unbelievable… I think Brook’s in a great spot. We love Brook. I think he had a huge impact in the playoffs and the Chicago series in particular was borderline dominant. In a weird way, the time off maybe has rejuvenated him a little bit, maybe he’s got a little more juice in the legs. But we feel great about him. Guys love him, he loves it here. I think he continues to have a huge impact in how we play.”"

Evidently, Horst and the Bucks are still confident in Lopez’s ability to continue his significant role with the team. Therefore, it seems unlikely that the 7-foot big man will be traded this offseason despite playing shorter minutes in the postseason this year and turning 35 years old next April.

Although, the NBA is strictly a business so you never know what could happen behind the scenes. The Bucks are a loyal organization and value their long-tenured guys, especially if they just helped win a championship, so the expectation is that Brook will stay, at least for now.

Lopez will be entering the final year of his contract next season. He’ll likely maintain his starting spot at center but may receive less minutes per game given his age and with the league trending toward more prominent small-ball lineups.

All in all, the Milwaukee Bucks seem to be preparing to run it back for the most part with Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the way, Khris Middleton returning to health, Jrue Holiday setting the tone, Brook Lopez anchoring the defense, and an improved supporting cast whether that includes developing their own or adding new pieces.

Stay tuned for more coverage on an essential offseason for Jon Horst and the title-contending Bucks.