In a world where several teams dished out big money this summer, the Milwaukee Bucks might have quietly secured a steal of a long-term commitment. Rollins signed a three-year deal worth $12 million this summer, returning to Milwaukee after a breakout year. While Rollins isn't the flashiest name to fans outside of Milwaukee, it's clear to those watching that he's brimming with potential.
Bucks banking on Rollins' ascension after last season's rise
On paper, Rollins' numbers from last season might not leap off the page. The young guard averaged 6.2 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. However, Rollins impacted the game by doing far more than putting up numbers. He was electric defensively, oftentimes taking on tough assignments, a floor spacer (40.8 percent from deep), and a quality playmaker at every turn.
In today's NBA, a player doing all of that while making $4 million annually is almost impossible to come by. Not in Milwaukee. In fact, between Rollins, AJ Green, and Gary Trent Jr., it feels like they have a handful of steals in town.
A good comparison for Rollins is Nickeil Alexander-Walker. Last season, Walker averaged 9.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in 25.3 minutes per game (Rollins was at 14.6). Alexander-Walker got a four-year deal worth $60.6 million because he can do all of the little things. Can Rollins get numbers like that next season? Undoubtedly, especially with the guard likely to see a more prominent role.
Even with last year's breakout under his belt, Rollins still has some work to do, as he should at just 23 years old. If the guard can continuing sharpening his defense, he could soon become elite on that side of the floor. He was already a lethal perimeter shooter last season, but if he can keep that up while being more versatile as a creator, his offensive production could increase mightily.
Recently, Milwaukee Bucks general manager compared Rollins to George Hill. The guard was one of the NBA's best sixth men during his first stint in Milwaukee, utilizing his lengthy wingspan to hound the opposition while also shooting and passing extremely well. Rollins does indeed have all of the tools to fill that George Hill role. Now, it's just time to take a leap compared to last season.
If he does, teams will soon be left wondering just how the Milwaukee Bucks got him on a deal worth $12 million over the next three seasons.
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