The Milwaukee Bucks have undergone some big roster changes throughout the past few weeks, and they might not be done yet.
The team is obligated to have 14 standard players on their roster and is eligible to have 15 at the max, excluding two-way contracts. The 14th roster spot is currently occupied by Meyers Leonard, who is on a 10-day deal, while the 15th spot remains vacant. Depending on what transpires with Leonard, the Bucks will be obligated to fill that spot once again. With that said, let us look at three scenarios to help the Bucks fulfill the NBA’s roster requirement of at least 14 players.
3 possible scenarios to help the Milwaukee Bucks fill out their roster – Give Meyers Leonard a standard deal
Sticking with Leonard, the Bucks could keep him around if they so desire. Leonard’s first 10-day deal will expire on March 3, but the team can sign him to one more if they want to utilize the big man’s services for another 10 days. After that, they would have to sign him to a standard deal for the remainder of the season. That seems like a feasible option for the Milwaukee Bucks.
It’s only been two games, but Leonard has looked decent for the Bucks, especially considering he has been out of the league for nearly two years. The center has shown that he can space the floor and defend the paint, which are two attributes the Bucks desire. Keeping Leonard would give the team frontcourt depth, given that they are thin behind Giannis Antetokounmpo, Brook Lopez, and Bobby Portis.
As the 14th man on Milwaukee’s roster, keeping Leonard around on a cheap deal would not be the worst move. He might not be a legitimate contributor down the line, but what 14th or 15th player on a roster typically is? This would be a depth move. The Bucks will certainly let Leonard play out this first 10-day contract before deciding on anything, but it would not be surprising to see them ink him to a legitimate deal soon.