The Milwaukee Bucks had a chance to part with Amir Coffey before his contract became guaranteed, but they didn't. Instead, the forward, who has scarcely played for the team this season, is staying put... for now. Guaranteeing Coffey's contract doesn't mean the Bucks believe in the forward as a win-now contributor. It's far more likely that they plan to use him as a trade chip when the opportunity arises.
Amir Coffey's time with the Bucks is likely nearing an end
Amir Coffey's contract with the Bucks is worth $2.6 million for just this season. With that in mind, it's clear that he won't make a massive difference in any trade from a salary perspective. However, if the Bucks plan on being as aggressive as rumors make them out to be, they will need all of that salary they possibly can to make trades work. Every penny counts.
It's still shocking that Coffey hasn't panned out with the Milwaukee Bucks. Pegged as one of the best bang-for-your-buck signings, the forward had the potential to be a seamless fit with this team. Yet, the newcomer quickly fell out of Milwaukee's rotation and hasn't been back since. The last time Coffey logged double-digit minutes was way back on November 12.
The fact that he hasn't been able to carve out a role for himself on a team that is deprived of depth at the small forward spot is telling. In 22 appearances this season, Coffey has averaged 1.5 points, 0.7 rebounds, and 0.4 assists per contest while hitting just 25 percent of his 3-pointers. The player who averaged 9.7 points and 1.4 3-point makes per game, both career bests, has not shown up.
All of that screams salary filler. There likely isn't a redemption arc in the works for the Bucks forward anytime soon. While he's a fine depth piece, especially given Milwaukee's thin wing personnel, they should not hesitate to move the forward if the opportunity presents itself.
Right now, there's no telling what team Coffey will be on following the NBA Trade Deadline. The Bucks have been connected to a litany of names, including but not limited to Anthony Davis, Jerami Grant, Zach LaVine, and Michael Porter Jr. Coffey would almost certainly be included in any deal for one of those players. The clock appears to be ticking. Time will tell when it expires.
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