The Milwaukee Bucks have started the 2024-25 season 1-4 and there isn’t a singular reason why. However, there could be a relatively simple fix for at least one of their early issues. Ranked 20th in bench points per game, Milwaukee needs a spark plug in their second unit.
Bucks ‘Expressed Strong Interest’ In Signing EuroLeague Guard Lonnie Walker IV
In the NBA’s vast free agent pool, Zalgiris Kaunas guard Lonnie Walker IV has emerged as one potential option for the Bucks. According to Donatas Urbanas of BasketNews, Milwaukee “expressed strong interest” in Walker before he made the jump to the EuroLeague. The six-year NBA veteran was trying to earn a roster spot with the Boston Celtics in training camp this season, but wound up being a budget cut.
“Walker had long been on the radar of European teams, and recent interest from Real Madrid sparked overseas conversations again.
But when Madrid’s option first appeared, Walker was not keen on moving to Europe, viewing himself as an NBA player. Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Bucks also expressed strong interest, though it didn’t lead to a roster spot.”
Walker has posted 11.2 points per game over the past four seasons. This season, that scoring average would be tied for fourth on the Bucks — with two-time Sixth Man of the Year finalist Bobby Portis. In what’s a particularly stark contrast, Milwaukee’s backup wings —Pat Connaughton and A.J. Green —only average 4.6 and 3.4 points per game, respectively.
What Are The Bucks Waiting For?
Suffice it to say, the Bucks’ wing corps would better off with Walker, who’ll have an NBA buyout clause until Feb. 18.
Because of their high tax bill, Milwaukee may hesitate to sign Walker for the same reason as Boston. However, the Bucks’ lack of cohesion and deficiencies at both ends gives them a lower margin of error than the Celtics. Furthermore, Giannis Antetokounmpo sounds like the latest franchise star prepared to force a trade. Even if it’s a typical media overreaction, it’s not a chance Milwaukee should take.
Ultimately, Milwaukee has less to risk and more to lose by not adding an affordable talent like Walker. Concerns about the development of young players (i.e. MarJon Beauchamp) under Doc Rivers only compound the problem. If the Bucks won’t put trust in their youth or sign anyone, their only other option might be getting a team to work with them on trade.
While Milwaukee decides, Walker will have “a vital role” with Zalgiris, where he’s projected to be a go-to player. The EuroLeague’s level of competition is generally lower than the NBA’s. Nonetheless, it’s a solid opportunity for Walker to showcase the full breadth of his skills. Playing at a high level there will only increase the chances of him signing an NBA contract sooner rather than later.
