Grading Serge Ibaka’s intriguing new deal with the Milwaukee Bucks
By Dalton Sell
Just over two weeks after it was initially announced, the Milwaukee Bucks and Serge Ibaka have officially agreed on a new contract to keep the big man in town for another season.
When the news first came out on July 4, it is not controversial to say that most fans were shocked to see Ibaka re-sign with the Bucks. The veteran had a frustrating close to the 2021-22 season as his role vanished in the postseason, having scarcely played any meaningful minutes, which had all signs pointing to him leaving in the free agency. However, Ibaka has chosen to stick around for one more year at least in what is undoubtedly an interesting move for both parties involved. With all of that said, let us break down this deal and give it a letter grade.
The financial aspect of Serge Ibaka’s one-year deal with the Milwaukee Bucks
It was speculated from that moment that this deal was announced that it would be worth nothing more than the veteran minimum, and that is indeed the case. According to Spotrac, Ibaka’s deal with the Bucks is officially a one-year contract worth $2.9 million. With that now certain, the financial aspect of this deal is certainly nothing to complain about.
Prior to re-signing Ibaka, the Bucks needed another big man for depth purposes. Given that they have spent the entire offseason prioritizing their own players in free agency by bringing back the likes of Bobby Portis, Jevon Carter, Wesley Matthews, and more, it was only fitting that the front office brought Ibaka back as well. On a minimum deal, it is a justifiable move as Ibaka can provide some insurance at the center position at the very minimum, but he also showed last season that he could still contribute at a serviceable level when given meaningful minutes.
As always, there is not much to complain about when it comes to a minimum contract, especially when it is utilized on a household name such as Serge Ibaka.