Despite being extension-eligible for weeks now, there has been little chatter regarding AJ Green and the Milwaukee Bucks coming to an agreement. This felt like it should have been an open-and-shut case on both sides, but with the lack of movement, one must wonder if the absence of traction could carry over into the season, where Green would be expiring at $2.3 million.
AJ Green could play out the year on a prove-it deal with Bucks
Green is between a rock and a hard place. On the one hand, he has a chance to go from an undrafted player working his way up to a cemented rotation player earning a long-term deal. That's always the dream for players in his position, but there's also a chance that if he waits another year, he could be in the market for an even bigger deal. Does he pounce now or bet on himself? That's the question.
The current offer for Green should be somewhere around four years and $38 million, which is exactly what Cavaliers guard Sam Merrill got. Green and Merrill are similar players, both relying heavily on the 3-point shot to make their impact. One could argue that Green is better defensively, which could earn him a bit more, but the point still stands.
The thing is that if Green takes this deal, it could become a steal incredibly quickly. The wing has been quietly one of the best shooters in the NBA in his career, and his defense has taken strides. If he does both of those things in a larger role next season, he could go from role player to vital cog very quickly for a team that has fully embraced a youth remodel this summer.
A full season playing off of Giannis Antetokounmpo and thriving as a catch-and-shoot threat could be just what Green needs to see his value go through the roof. Many believe AJ Green could even start for this team, which would almost guarantee more minutes. In such a role, there's no doubt that the 7.4 points on 2.1 3-pointers made per game last season could increase mightily.
Whether it's Green wanting to bet on himself, the two sides ironing out the fine details, or the Bucks still exploring other moves, there's no telling why this deal hasn't happened yet. It would be great to see the two sides come to an agreement, but one could understand why Green might want to wait, even if it would be quite the risky gamble.
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