Pat Connaughton has been showing signs of life lately, rekindling memories of his 2021 self with energetic play and solid contributions in limited minutes.
In recent games, he’s done just enough to remind fans why he became a fan favorite during Milwaukee’s championship run. Against the Orlando Magic, Connaughton logged 11 minutes and tallied three points, one rebound and an assist, but his hustle noticeably shifted the game’s energy.
In a recent win over the Sacramento Kings, he put up a more robust stat line of five points, five assists and three steals.
It’s been a respectable stretch for the veteran wing, but this resurgence shouldn’t shift the Bucks’ stance on his future. If anything, it may make it easier to move him.
Pat Connaughton is showing flashes of his peak, but it's time to move on
Connaughton’s value has always been rooted in his effort and reliability. He’s a capable shooter, a scrappy defender and someone who’s willing to do the dirty work. At his peak, he was the kind of glue guy who could swing playoff games with timely threes and relentless hustle. However, the 30-year-old has seen his production dip in recent seasons, and his ability to consistently impact games has waned.
Through 30 games this season, Connaughton has averaged just 4.6 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 15.7 minutes per game while shooting 28.8 percent from deep. Those numbers are a far cry from his contributions during the Bucks’ title run, especially from deep, where he shot 37.5 percent during the playoffs and provided critical spacing.
Perhaps the writing was on the wall when the Milwaukee Bucks' return to their winning ways coincided with Connaughton's benching. The coaching staff finding their answers elsewhere should have told fans all we needed to know about where Pat Connaughton stood in the pecking order.
Once the ever-reliable, do-it-all veteran, Connaughton eventually fell to being a net negative every time he stepped on the floor. While his last five games have looked more promising across the board — he's chipping in 5.3 points, three rebounds and 2.7 in his extended minutes — the reality is his latest surge might be too little, too late.
The fact of the matter is that the Bucks are in win-now mode, and every roster spot must serve that purpose. Connaughton’s occasional bursts of energy and veteran presence can be helpful, but Milwaukee needs a more consistent impact from its rotation players.
The Bucks are better off parting ways with their championship hero
The Milwaukee Bucks are thin on trade assets after years of aggressively mortgaging the future to remain contenders.
Connaughton’s reasonable contract—he’s owed $9.4 million this season and has a player option for 2025—makes him an attractive piece for teams looking to add depth. If the Bucks can package him in a deal to bring back a player who fits their immediate needs, it’s a move they should strongly consider.
Milwaukee’s roster construction has reached a critical juncture. With Khris Middleton showing signs of decline, Bobby Portis locked into a bench role, and Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard carrying the team, the Bucks can’t afford to waste time on sentimental attachments. Connaughton’s role as a bench contributor is no longer as vital as it once was, and his skill set doesn’t fill the team’s most glaring holes.
Pat Connaughton’s recent play may have boosted his trade value, but it shouldn’t change Milwaukee’s outlook on him. The Milwaukee Bucks need to maximize their assets and prioritize players who can deliver consistent results in high-stakes situations. While Connaughton will always be remembered fondly for his contributions to the 2021 championship team, it’s clear that his time in Milwaukee is nearing its end.
Sometimes, moving on is the best way to honor what came before.
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