The Milwaukee Bucks have been chasing free agent forward Peyton Watson for weeks, and while they might be in the driver's seat to land him, they could also strike out. That's exactly why they must have some backup plans in place if things go south. Here are three options on the market that would still make sense.
Jonathan Kuminga
In addition to Watson, Milwaukee has also been linked to Kuminga. Just about every Kuminga suitor is also eyeing Watson, so it feels like the former won't find his next spot until the latter does first. Even if he is Plan B to Watson, Kuminga could be an interesting addition to this youth-oriented squad as their new starting small forward.
In stints with the Warriors and Hawks, Kuminga flexed plenty of potential as a high-flying forward who could make his presence felt on both ends, but inconsistent opportunities have hindered his growth. Landing somewhere like Milwaukee, where a starting opportunity is waiting, could be just what he needs to finally get off the ground.
Bennedict Mathurin
This one is a bit more puzzling, but there is still some intrigue. HoopsHype's Michael Scotto reports that Milwaukee has interest in Bennedict Mathurin, whose market is also being held up by Watson's standstill. If the Bucks feel like the offense still needs some juice and they want to stack talent, their interest in Mathurin is reasonable.
The problem is that Mathurin is a guard, and Milwaukee's roster already has too many of them as is. Adding him would only worsen the problem. Still, there is no denying that he boasts potential. At just 24 years old, the guard is still young and could take another step forward on a team where he is more featured. Milwaukee could very well be that place.
DeMar DeRozan
While the other two players are young, up-and-comers, DeRozan would see the Milwaukee Bucks take a different approach entirely. DeRozan just turned 37 and would be the oldest player on the new-look Bucks by a country mile. Why would a team so focused on youth add a veteran? Well, simply, due to the fact that he can still play well.
This past season, DeRozan averaged his fewest points per game since 2012-13, and he still put up a smooth 18.4 points per game. That type of productivity could be useful for a team that needs a body at the small forward spot. Also, it wouldn't hurt to bring in a battle-tested veteran to help guide the next generation of the Milwaukee Bucks, given how young this roster is.
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