The Milwaukee Bucks opted to utilize both of their 2024 NBA Draft picks rather than trading them, bringing two new players to the roster.
In the first round, they added AJ Johnson, a move that took many by surprise, to say the very least. In the second round, they selected Tyler Smith, a move that was far less controversial.
With a couple of new faces on the roster, let us break down the new depth chart based on players with standard contracts.
Bucks added more youth and athleticism to the depth chart
Point guard - Damian Lillard, AJ Johnson
Shooting guard - Pat Connaughton, A.J. Green, Andre Jackson Jr.
Small forward - Khris Middleton, MarJon Beauchamp, Chris Livingston
Power forward - Giannis Antetokounmpo, Tyler Smith
Center - Brook Lopez, Bobby Portis
With NBA Free Agency coming up, this depth chart will not remain permanent, as tweaks will be made in the coming days.
Immediately, it's clear that Milwaukee could use more bodies at the point guard and power forward positions. Both newcomers are the current backups at those spots, and they certainly may not be ready to make an impact on a veteran-oriented team from day one.
With both Patrick Beverley and Jae Crowder set to join the free-agent pool, there is a decent shot the Bucks may lose them both, so they could be looking for help elsewhere.
Scouring the free agent market for forwards, a few names the Bucks could go after are Naji Marshall, Taurean Prince and Lamar Stevens. For point guards, Delon Wright, Dennis Smith Jr. and Kris Dunn would all be quality fits in the backcourt behind Damian Lillard. Even without ample spending money, the Milwaukee Bucks could lure a quality free agent to shore up their depth at these spots.
The Bucks are more well-equipped to deal with the inevitable loss of Malik Beasley that is coming in the near future. The guard will sign a more lucrative deal elsewhere, opening the door for someone else to take the reigns at the two-guard spot. Connaughton is currently atop the pecking order, but that likely will not last. It wouldn't be surprising to see a trade or signing to address that slot.
So far, the Milwaukee Bucks have done a nice job adding more youth and athleticism to this roster, but things are only just getting started. There are plenty more moves to be made this off-season.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.