The Milwaukee Bucks' draft record over the last near-decade hasn't been great, but the team hasn't let that stop them from finding hidden gems via other avenues. Over the last several years, the Bucks have consistently found talent through two-way contracts. Although it hasn't erased how poorly the team has drafted recently, it has undoubtedly helped lessen the blow.
Bucks have a knack for finding talent via the two-way portal
The Milwaukee Bucks have found three excellent two-way talents in recent memory, with two now on the standard roster and the other likely to be there shortly.
Following the 2022 NBA Draft, an undrafted AJ Green joined the Bucks. Right off the bat, the move was easily justifiable, giving the team another outside shooter to pair with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Throughout his four years with the team, the guard has steadily improved to the point where he is now regarded as one of the best outside shooters in the NBA and a full-time starting guard.
After being cut by the Washington Wizards, Ryan Rollins came to Milwaukee on a prove-it two-way deal, and he certainly made the most of it. Last season, he overtook veteran Delon Wright as the Bucks' backup floor general, never looking back. This season, he's been a two-way force and one of the leading candidates for the NBA's Most Improved Player honor.
This season, Pete Nance has burst onto the scene, giving the Milwaukee Bucks some stellar play in the frontcourt as Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kyle Kuzma battle injuries. With how well the forward has played lately, it's only a matter of time before the Bucks hand Nance a standard deal after parting with former Badger Nigel Hayes-Davis following the NBA Trade Deadline.
All three look like they will be core pieces of this franchise for the foreseeable future. For a team that has whiffed on draft pick after draft pick in recent years, that is certainly welcoming.
Making things all the sweeter is that the Milwaukee Bucks have an opportunity to keep this trend alive if they play their cards right. As things stand, they have a two-way slot open. Once they hand Nance a promotion, they will have two. That's two opportunities to add helpful pieces who can make up for the poor draft record that has haunted this team.
Whether they explore the G League, scout some overseas talent, or target someone seeking their next NBA home via some other avenue, the Bucks will have options to find their next hidden gem.
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