It’s officially the second day of 2023 NBA Free Agency, and Milwaukee Bucks fans are hoping the team is more active than they were on day one.
With Khris Middleton locked up on a new long-term deal, the front office can now look elsewhere to beef up the roster. Now, let’s look at some possible free agent candidates.
Day 2 free agents the Milwaukee Bucks should have a close eye on
Points guards:
With Jevon Carter leaving the Bucks for the Bulls, Milwaukee needs a new backup point guard to play behind Jrue Holiday. Patrick Beverley would be a solid option, giving the team another tough and defensive-minded guard with experience. Sticking with the Bulls, Ayo Dosunmu would be an excellent addition to give the Bucks a jolt of youth in the backcourt. Russell Westbrook is by far the most far-fetched name here, but he should not be discounted as a possible target. He’s not a seamless fit with the Bucks but would bring playmaking and immense energy to the bench unit.
Shooting guards:
The Bucks are reportedly eyeing Eric Gordon, which is justifiable. He’s a skilled veteran who would bring plenty of second unit scoring and outside shooting. Staying along the lines of an excellent shooter, the Bucks should aim to keep A.J. Green, who turned some heads during a solid rookie campaign with Milwaukee last season. Would Malik Beasley be willing to take a cheap deal? He’s a strong perimeter shooter who could give this team a huge boost off the bench, if so.
Small forwards:
Dillon Brooks, anyone? Per The Athletic’s Kelly Iko (Subscription required), the Bucks have had a meeting with Brooks recently. He’d give Milwaukee the defensive-minded wing they have been searching for over the last few years, but he may be out of the team’s price range. Jae Crowder is still unsigned, and there were rumors swirling that he’d likely be back with the Bucks. If they are able to keep him for cheap, they should. Kelly Oubre Jr. remains unsigned as well, and if he’s on the hunt for a lucrative deal, it would be hard for Milwaukee to get him. Yet, if he’s willing to take a pay cut to potentially contend, the Bucks should give him a call to shore up their wing depth. Torrey Craig or Grant Williams would also certainly be nice for Milwaukee.
Power forwards:
There are not too many names on the power forward market who fit the Bucks’ price tag at this point. How much do the Hornets love P.J. Washington, who is a restricted free agent? He’s more than likely just a pipe dream target. JaMychal Green could be an interesting addition after a decent season with the Warriors, but that would be just a depth move. Jalen McDaniels would absolutely be an interesting target, as the 6-foot-9 forward would bring tremendous versatility, but he may be out of Milwaukee’s range.
Centers:
If the Bucks lose Brook Lopez, this section becomes incredibly important. Mo Bamba should be high on Milwaukee’s list if they lose Lopez, as the former first rounder has the potential to be a strong defensive presence down low while also being able to stretch the floor. Thomas Bryant would be an interesting option, as he’d bring some youth and intensity to the floor. Jock Landale, while not being a perfect fit, could be an interesting youngster to take a flyer on. The Bucks would be better off just bringing back Lopez on a new deal at the end of the day, though.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis and free agency breakdowns.