There has been a lot of talk about how the Milwaukee Bucks need to bring more youth and athleticism into the fold this NBA off-season.
It's a reasonable notion that the team needs external help in that regard, but they do also have some players already on the roster who could help out. As the Bucks look to get their wing woes resolved, there has been plenty of chatter about MarJon Beauchamp and Andre Jackson Jr. Yet, a name that cannot be forgotten in these talks is Chris Livingston.
The Bucks inked Chris Livingston to a historic deal
With the final pick of the 2023 NBA Draft, the Bucks selected Chris Livingston. They made history by making him the highest-paid final pick of a draft ever, showcasing that they clearly had faith in what he could bring to this team. Livingston didn't play much in year one, having tallied 90 total minutes in the NBA regular season. Next season, the Milwaukee Bucks need more.
There's plenty to like about Livingston. He's a 6-foot-6, 220-pound sturdy forward who possesses excellent athleticism. He has all of the tools to be a quality two-way wing in this league, taking on a tough assignment defensively while also finding ways to score on the other end. That sounds exactly like someone who could help the Bucks.
.@bucks rookie Chris Livingston elevated for one of the FILTHIEST POSTERS of the season during his assignment with the @wisconsinherd! 🤯🦌 pic.twitter.com/D4a5BnClA7
— NBA G League (@nbagleague) May 31, 2024
At just 20 years old, Livingston is the youngest and most raw player on Milwaukee's roster. Due to his age, it wasn't unreasonable for him to mostly serve as a spectator this past season, but with the team needing more of what he brings to the table, they need him to have a breakout sophomore season in the 2024-25 season.
Working to improve his game will be pivotal this off-season, so it was a positive sign to see Livingston working out with the other young Bucks and presumably Giannis Antetokounmpo in Greece recently. If Livingston can continue his development while building chemistry with his teammates, it will bolster his odds of being an impact player next season.
If the Bucks can indeed mold Livingston into a contributor, their historic financial investment would be entirely worthwhile.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.