These under the radar free agents could help the Bucks at small forward

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - FEBRUARY 10 (Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - FEBRUARY 10 (Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty Images) /
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Milwaukee Bucks: Bobby Portis, Grayson Allen, Portland Trail Blazers: Justise Winslow
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – FEBRUARY 14 (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) /

The Milwaukee Bucks could target Justise Winslow

Justise Winslow is set to be an unrestricted free agent after his 2022-23 season was cut short due to an ankle injury. He played in 29 games for the Portland Trail Blazers, averaging 6.8 points, five rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. He shot 40.9 percent from the field and 31.1 percent from 3-point range.

Winslow has always been a versatile player who could contribute in a variety of ways. He was a good defender, rebounder, and passer. He also had some ability to create his own shot and create opportunities for others.

The Bucks are in need of a player like Winslow, who stands at 6-foot-6 and is also a bit of a hybrid defender. Winslow could provide depth at the wing position and even take on tertiary playmaking duties to help carry some of the offensive burden on Milwaukee’s Big 3.

However, Winslow’s injury problems have been a major issue throughout his career. He has missed significant time in each of the past three seasons, and teams may not be keen on giving him another contract to take on a bigger role.

It’s worth pointing out though that the Bucks already took a chance on an injured competitor once in Joe Ingles, and that signing paid off quite well, all things considered. Given their skill sets, Winslow could also be someone who fills that playmaking and floor-spacing role quite well while providing better defense.

It remains to be seen if Winslow can stay healthy and reach the potential he was drafted for with the 10th pick back in 2015. Playing with a superstar like Giannis Antetokounmpo could finally be the one final push he needs to find a place in this league. But if the Bucks do sign him, it’s going to be a prove-it deal from the get-go, and he’ll have to earn his spot in the rotation — and, eventually, the NBA.