Ranking Bucks free agents from most to least likely to return next season

Milwaukee Bucks, Brook Lopez, Khris Middleton. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports
Milwaukee Bucks, Brook Lopez, Khris Middleton. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports
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Milwaukee Bucks
Milwaukee Bucks, Wesley Matthews. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

7. Wesley Matthews

Will Matthews keep playing? He turns 37 years old in October and just finished his 14th NBA season, but the 6’4 wing is still searching for his first championship. Matthews has played for the Bucks in three of the last four years with the exception being their 2021 championship season. He joined the Lakers just after their title in 2020 and stayed in LA for one year.

Matthew is still a stout defender, but his shot-making has fallen off over the last three years. The 6’4 wing is best suited to play 15 to 20 minutes per game at this stage in his career, and he will need plenty of time to rest.

The Milwaukee Bucks would be glad to have Wesley Matthews back on a minimum contract, but will the 37-year-old choose them as the franchise he wants to chase a championship with? They still have Giannis Antetokounmpo and that alone will make the Bucks among the title favorites next season.

What other offers will Matthews receive in free agency? He brings leadership, a veteran presence, and stout perimeter defense at this stage of his career. Any contending team would love to have that at the end of their bench but expect Matthews to be back with the Bucks next season for one last chance to chase a ring.