There was a time when Milwaukee Bucks fans were extremely excited for Mark Sears' arrival. It was difficult not to be, as he had the tools to become a legitimate option for a team that hasn't had much reliable point guard depth in years. Yet, Sears won't have an opportunity to shine as a Buck anytime soon, as the guard's G League rights were just traded, ending his time with the franchise.
Milwaukee's G League squad, the Wisconsin Herd, just completed a five-team trade that sends Sears to the Rip City Remix, Portland's affiliate—in return, they landed Cameron Parker and a first round pick in the G League draft. Now, after spending his rookie season with the Herd and the Bucks, Sears will move across the country and wipe the slate clean.
Sears moving after quiet Bucks stint
After going undrafted, Milwaukee swiftly picked up Sears on a two-way deal. Given his experience and production in college, there was hope that he could be a potential breakout candidate with the Bucks, who have had plenty of success with two-way contracts in recent years. Yet, things failed to pan out that way.
After making seven appearances with the Bucks, Sears was waived, though he was picked up by the Herd to keep him in Wisconsin. He played well with an extended opportunity in Oshkosh, but the team was clearly fine with moving him, especially with a first-rounder being included in a deal. Perhaps the Remix can unearth something in Sears that sees him make it back to the NBA level.
This is more greats news for Kam Jones
With the Milwaukee Bucks' backcourt overflowing as is, it won't be surprising if two-way guard Kam Jones takes most of his reps with the Herd this coming season. As he looks to make it back to the NBA full-time, the good news for him is that his upcoming window of opportunity in Oshkosh just keeps opening further.
First, Herd all-time leading scorer and leader in games played leader Stephen Thompson has left the team to join the Minnesota Timberwolves. Now, Sears is heading to Portland. Two players who played crucial parts in the Herd's game plan last season are now gone. Someone has to step into their shoes from day one next season, and Jones is well-positioned to do so.
It's unfortunate that Mark Sears never broke out in Milwaukee, but if Kam Jones can, it will lessen the blow considerably.
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