Former Bucks guard Malcolm Brogdon remains unsigned in late August despite a handful of teams, including Milwaukee, reportedly expressing interest. With each day that goes by, it feels more and more likely that Brogdon's wait could bleed over into the regular season, where it's more likely that he'll get a call if someone suffers an injury.
Someone could use Brogdon... eventually
Teams are likely concerned about Brogdon's health. The guard is coming off a career low 24-contest campaign in 2024-25, largely due to a leg injury. Injuries have been a prominent storyline throughout Brogdon's career, as he's played in over 60 games just once since 2018-19. Teams are seemingly on the fence about bringing in a guard with that type of lengthy history.
When healthy, Brogdon has shown that he can be a useful asset. In 2022-23, when he was a member of the Boston Celtics, the guard took home Sixth Man of the Year. In 67 games that season, his most since a stellar Rookie of the Year campaign in Milwaukee, he averaged 14.9 points and 3.7 assists while shooting 44.4 percent from distance. Yet, he just hasn't been able to stay that healthy.
If he remains unsigned, Brogdon would be a great break glass in case of emergency guard option for teams to call. He's experienced, showing he can lead a bench brigade with his passing, shooting, and scoring chops. Furthermore, he won't cost someone a lot on the financial side, making this about as low-risk as it can get if a team needs a point guard.
Former Bucks wing Wesley Matthews went through a similar experience. After a quiet year with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020-21, Matthews returned to Milwaukee on a non-guaranteed deal due to Milwaukee's need for wing depth. He became such a crucial cog that he earned a regular deal and a spot in the rotation. Malcolm Brogdon could follow a similar path this coming season.
There had been some chatter about Brogdon potentially returning to Milwaukee this summer, but that door feels slammed shut. Embracing youth, Milwaukee's lack of moves at the point guard spot after giving deals to Kevin Porter Jr., Ryan Rollins, and Cole Anthony makes it feel like they trust that trio to run the floor general duties next season.
Someone could very well still sign Malcolm Brogdon, or at least bring him in for training camp, but the market is certainly dry right now. If someone truly wanted him, they would have snatched him up.
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