The Milwaukee Bucks technically have one more roster spot they can use on anyone. There are three clear-cut candidates, including Andre Jackson Jr., Thanasis Antetokounmpo, and Amir Coffey, all for different reasons. Of the three names, Coffey, who has a chance to fight for his spot in training camp, feels like the most reasonable pick.
Amir Coffey feels like Bucks' most likely pick
There is some appeal with all three players. However, Coffey stands out the most due to his skill set and how he fits with this particular Bucks roster.
A 6-foot-7 wing who just shot 40.9 percent from three, Coffey is the type of player who could carve a role out for himself on a team that could use another small forward. He was a legitimate rotation piece for the LA Clippers last season, and many are baffled that the Milwaukee Bucks got him on a training camp contract. It could be one of the biggest steals of the NBA offseason.
With Jackson, there's no denying the defensive upside. He has versatile defensive ace written all over him, and he showed it in spurts as a starter last year. Yet, his offensive production was non-existent most nights, making him a non-threat to opposing defenses. Teams cannot afford to have that these days, as it weakens the offense. It's why Jackson ultimately fell out of favor in Doc Rivers' rotation.
There's a reason the Milwaukee Bucks haven't fully guaranteed his team-friendly contract yet.
NBA insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer (subscription required) reported earlier this summer that Milwaukee could bring back Thanasis if they knew Giannis Antetokounmpo would return. Yet, that was before Coffey fell into their laps, while Thanasis is coming off an Achilles injury. Though his presence in the locker room is always valued, signing an impact player like Coffey seems more desirable.
Fans shouldn't expect an answer anytime soon. Training camp hasn't even started yet, and Milwaukee doesn't have to make a decision on Andre Jackson Jr.'s contract until opening night. Letting him go is the move needed to bring in Thanasis or Coffey on a standard deal. The Milwaukee Bucks obviously want to see how things unfold in training camp before making a decision.
Speculation-wise, Amir Coffey feels like the obvious choice right now. There's no telling how the rest of the summer will shake out, but this is the big storyline worth keeping an eye on currently.
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