Re-signing Gary Trent Jr. to a two-year, $7.5 million deal represented a fantastic offseason move for the Milwaukee Bucks. It may have looked like a minor move at first, but in reality it represents one of the most impactful free agent acquisitions in the entire league, especially when you consider Trent’s skillset and role within Milwaukee’s roster.
This past year was Trent's first in Milwaukee, after he signed a minimum deal with the Bucks back on July 20, 2024. He of course had to adjust to a new offensive system upon arrival. But as he found stability, Trent began to tap into the strengths that make him such a significant threat.
By the end of the regular season, he ranked among the best catch-and-shoot scorers in the playoffs. In the first round against the Indiana Pacers, he scored 37 and 33 points in two pivotal games, and even drilled nine threes in Game 3. That kind of performance is rare, and even rarer at that price point.
Statistically, Trent was strong across the board. He averaged 11.1 points on 43.1% shooting overall and 41.6% from three in just under 26 minutes per game. His efficiency reflects his reputation as a sharp off-ball shooter who can stretch defenses and create opportunities for Giannis Antetokounmpo and other teammates.
Trent's deal is for two years and $7.5 mil
Milwaukee’s front office deserves credit for getting this deal with Trent done. They understood that an efficient shooter does not need to command a ton of money to be a difference‑maker. The two‑year deal locks Trent in through 2027 without hampering the team’s ability to chase another complimentary piece. It's this kind of decision that illustrates a balance of competitiveness and cap awareness that not many teams manage to strike.
On the court, Trent has become the blueprint for a secondary floor-spacer. He moves well off screens and lets the game come to him with a strong catch-and-shoot game. With Damian Lillard and Brook Lopez both no longer part of the team, Trent is the kind of veteran role player who can stabilize rotations and keep the offense operating smoothly.
This contract is also a statement about the Bucks' current path. They know they have to do everything they can to remain competitive while also retaining flexibility with Giannis now without a superstar teammate all of a sudden. Milwaukee now has to lean on well-calculated additions more than ever.
The Bucks could easily have entered free agency paying bigger money for similar production. Instead, they made a great value signing. As the season unfolds, Gary Trent Jr. will serve as a quiet reminder of what happens when front offices get their calculations right on less-valued veterans. This was a 10 out of 10 job by Milwaukee to get this deal done, and management deserves their credit.