The Milwaukee Bucks have maintained roster flexibility by pushing back the guarantee date on the contract of Andre Jackson Jr., allowing them to waive him if needed. With ESPN's Shams Charania reporting that the Bucks are signing Amir Coffey to a one-year contract, many initially thought that Jackson's days in Milwaukee were over, but that won't be the case. The Athletic's Eric Nehm adds that it's a camp deal for Coffey, so the Bucks don't have to clear room for him just yet.
Bucks bringing in a potential hidden gem for training camp
Getting Amir Coffey on a camp deal is good business. The wing is coming off a strong year with the LA Clippers, averaging a career-high 9.7 points per game while shooting 40.9 percent from distance. The 6-foot-7 28-year-old has never been an outstanding defender, but the glimpses have been there. Bringing in a player like that for training camp is an underrated win for the Milwaukee Bucks.
Though Jackson is safe for the time being, this does give him competition if he is on the roster once training camp begins. It's not a coincidence that these two play the same position. The Bucks could use another stout wing on the roster, and it's clear that they aren't sold on Jackson. If Coffey earns the spotlight in training camp, he could earn Jackson's roster spot.
Not only could Coffey take Jackson's place, but Milwaukee's small forward position as a whole is up for grabs. Taurean Prince had a good regular season, but he fell on his face in the NBA Playoffs. While he's young and fits what they need, Chris Livingston might not be ready for a prominent role with the Milwaukee Bucks, as he's still very raw. Coffey has an opportunity to work his way into the rotation.
If he does make the roster, Coffey would fit in perfectly with what the Milwaukee Bucks are building. They have made it a point this summer to surround Giannis Antetokounmpo with quality perimeter shooters and young athletes. The 28-year-old could end up being a steal based on his production last season.
With this news, it's clear that the Milwaukee Bucks aren't done making moves. They still have until opening night, when they will face the Washington Wizards, per the NBA's schedule drop, to decide what to do with Jackson. Their rumored interest in Thanasis Antetokounmpo is still lingering. Coffey has a chance to earn a legitimate deal.
Milwaukee is truly never done.
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