Milwaukee Bucks make NBA history with the signing of Chris Livingston

With the final pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, the Milwaukee Bucks selected a promising young wing from Kentucky by the name of Chris Livingston.

The Bucks clearly liked Livingston leading up to the draft, and the feeling was mutual. The Athletic NBA insider Shams Charania reported that Livingston’s agent told teams not to take his client due to a potential draft promise in round two. Sure enough, Livingston was on the board at 58.

Milwaukee continued to show how much faith they have in Livingston by signing him to a historic rookie deal. Per Charania, the Bucks inked Livingston to a four-year deal worth $7.7 million. While only the first two years are guaranteed, the deal contains the largest total salary for the final pick in any NBA Draft to date.

Milwaukee Bucks make NBA history with the signing of Chris Livingston

This is certainly an eye-catcher. The draft promise made it clear that the Bucks were fond of Livingston, but this takes it up a notch. At 19 years old, the forward has plenty of growing to do, and the Bucks clearly believe they can unearth some of his potential. Unlike years past, youth is set to be a significant part of how the Bucks do things moving forward, so Livingston will not be buried on the bench throughout his rookie season, in all likelihood.

While he might not see the most prominent role, Livingston could undoubtedly make his way onto the floor for the Bucks if he puts the work in. In a league that is becoming dominated by wings, the Bucks were wise to stock up on them this off-season. It feels odd to say that a 19-year-old could play a role for Milwaukee this season after these past few seasons, but it could very well happen.

Livingston has been a solid contributor throughout Milwaukee’s first two Summer League games, having averaged 8.5 points, six rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. He’s been an enforcer on the glass thus far, making his presence felt down low despite standing at just 6-foot-6. If he can bring some of that rebounding while also sharpening his defense and outside shooting, there is certainly room for him with the Milwaukee Bucks this coming season.

Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis, breakdowns, and rumors this off-season.