Just what the doctor ordered? Grading Milwaukee Bucks' 2024 offseason

The NBA Draft

With a first and second round pick at their disposal, all eyes were on the Milwaukee Bucks leading up to the 2024 NBA Draft. It was clear that this roster, one of the oldest in the NBA, needed to add some youth to the mix, and this seemed like a perfect opportunity for them to add a piece or two who may be able to help. What transpired was pretty unorthodox in the moment.

Drafting AJ Johnson.

With their first-rounder, the Bucks took AJ Johnson, a move that stunned just about every Bucks fan. Given that many thought the team was looking for players who could help sooner rather than later, it was shocking to see them take a 19-year-old who averaged 2.8 points, 1.3 rebounds and 0.7 assists per game overseas last season.

Johnson raised his stock with a strong showing in the Summer League, showing off his unreal speed, tough shot-making and playmaking ability. The potential is there for the young guard to develop into a quality player, but it's unclear how long it will take. It just might be the most significant draft gamble that general manager Jon Horst has made during his tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Drafting Tyler Smith.

With their second-round selection, the Milwaukee Bucks took Tyler Smith, another 19-year-old who actually knew AJ Johnson from playing together back in the day. Position-wise, it made sense for the Bucks to add another big body, as the 6-foot-11 forward will give the team another frontcourt piece to serve as depth behind Giannis Antetokounmpo, Brook Lopez and Bobby Portis.

Just like Johnson, Smith has the potential to be a quality NBA player; it's just unclear how long it will take for him to unearth it. He's got a smooth-looking jumper and possesses eye-catching athleticism for a player of his size, but at 19, he's still growing. While he needs time to grow, being in a frontcourt room with those three aforementioned players should do well for his development.