It's already been said countless times, but Gary Trent Jr.'s contract with the Milwaukee Bucks is aging like milk. After signing a four-year extension worth $64 million this summer, Trent has logged a total of 13 minutes this season. Paying him that much stings, especially with a pair of two-way guys, Cormac Ryan and Kam Jones, playing incredibly well in the G League for far less.
G League guards are shining
Through two games, Ryan and Jones, both signed to the Milwaukee Bucks via two-way contracts, are lighting it up for the Wisconsin Herd.
Ryan is averaging an impressive 29.5 points, 4.5 assists, and two steals per game while knocking in 75.9 percent of his shot attempts. Jones, meanwhile, is averaging 21.5 points and 10 assists (third in the G League) per game while shooting 57.1 percent. Yes, it's absolutely a small sample size, but the duo is dazzling, showing that they might deserve a closer look at the NBA level sooner or later.
However, any promotion will have to wait. Despite the Milwaukee Bucks constantly promoting internal talent over the years, including Ryan Rollins and AJ Green, they simply don't have any room right now. Even if the pair deserve a look at the next level, the Bucks handing Trent $64 million to essentially be out of the rotation will hinder them from making any moves, especially guard-related ones.
It would make far more sense to see what those two could do on their two-ways rather than have Trent earn $64 million to not play. Yet, it's just not happening. The fact that the Bucks have these two in the farm system yet can't exactly fit them into the current plans is unfortunate. It's not all Trent's fault, but his massive deal is a factor.
Ryan, Jones will have to wait
For the time being, Ryan and Jones can only focus on the task ahead, and that's playing well with the Wisconsin Herd. Their time could come later this season, closer to the NBA Trade Deadline. While the odds of Trent being traded are slim, Tyler Herro, Ryan Rollins, and AJ Green are all guards who have at least some value and could be thrown into discussions.
If any of them get moved, suddenly, the team might need some support in the backcourt and could call on one or both of these G League standouts. The potential is there for both players to become eye-catching rotational pieces in this new era of Milwaukee Bucks basketball. The hope is that Trent could be that at some point, but things look bleak right now.
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