In the summer of 2023, the Houston Rockets made Brook Lopez a sizeable offer in an attempt to lure him away from the Milwaukee Bucks, who ultimately gave him a massive two-year contract worth $48 million. It was a lot of money for Lopez, who was still solid but clearly aging. Now, reports signal that Houston could once again pursue the free agent, but the Bucks can't afford to repeat history.
Rockets could pry Brook Lopez from Bucks
According to The Athletic's Kelly Iko (subscription required), team sources say that Houston could reignite their interest in the big man if Steven Adams departs in free agency. It would be a natural fit, giving the Rockets an experienced veteran who gives them some defensive edge but provides much more spacing than the interior-based Adams.
If the Rockets want Lopez and are willing to make him an offer, the Milwaukee Bucks cannot afford to overpay to make sure he sticks around again. The big man can still play, but his flaws were on display more than ever this past season, especially in the NBA Playoffs, where he oftentimes found himself on the sidelines due to matchup problems.
Another big payday could carry those problems over into next season, which could set the Bucks up for a rude awakening.
Simply put, at 37, Lopez cannot move as well in space as he once could, and opposing ball-handlers can pick on him. The Indiana Pacers tore him to pieces in the NBA Playoffs due to his lack of mobility and athleticism. Those are two key attributes that should define Milwaukee's frontcourt retooling this summer, as it's clear it may be time to turn over a new leaf with their style of play.
Further complicating Milwaukee and Lopez continuing their partnership is that it seems like plenty of teams are registering early interest in the big man. Houston stands out, but the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors also loom large as rumors start to heat up. Even at his age, Lopez could create a bidding war among teams who feel like adding a big man will be an offseason priority.
No matter what goes down this offseason, Brook Lopez will always be a Milwaukee legend for his undeniable contributions during the Bucks' 2021 title run. If this is indeed the end, it was a good run.
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