Ranking the Milwaukee Bucks' offseason retoolings post-championship
By Dalton Sell
No. 2 - 2024 offseason
Many would argue that this deserves to take the top spot. It certainly has a case, but it comes in No. 2 for this particular writer. While not coming in at first, there's a ton to love about the Milwaukee Bucks' moves from this past summer.
The good: Signing Gary Trent Jr., signing Delon Wright, signing Taurean Prince, drafting AJ Johnson, drafting Tyler Smith
In the eyes of many, Gary Trent Jr. was the biggest steal of the offseason. A clear-cut starting two, the Bucks inked Trent to a one-year deal worth the minimum. It's a massive win for the Milwaukee Bucks, and Trent should be a key cog. His 3-point shooting and defensive disruptiveness will have him on the floor in crucial moments as he aims to get paid next offseason.
Sticking with minimum deals, the Bucks beefed up their bench with Delon Wright and Taurean Prince. Neither player is the flashiest name, but they both patch roster roles on the defensive end and give the team more versatility. Given the financial limitations Milwaukee is battling, getting these two for cheap is a sizeable victory. Expect both to play strong roles and bring more needed defense.
The Bucks needed more youth this offseason. When the picks were made, many were not fond of the moves for AJ Johnson and Tyler Smith, two 19 year olds. The potential is undoubtedly there, but fans were concerned when exactly these two youngsters may be ready to help. It almost certainly will not be this coming season, but the year after? The year after that? It is unknown.
Thankfully, both raised their stock in the Summer League, primarily Johnson, the first-round pick. His speed, burst, athleticism and fearlessness created several eye-catching plays, which got Bucks fans leaning forward in their seats. It might take time, but if these two pan out, Milwaukee may have extended its title window this past offseason. It was a big gamble by Jon Horst.
The bad: N/A (yet)
On paper, all of Milwaukee's moves appear to be good. Of course, that could change in time, but for now, there is reason for optimism. Perhaps we'll circle back next offseason.