The Milwaukee Bucks seem overlooked as the 2024-25 NBA season approaches. Just a year ago, they traded for Damian Lillard, creating massive hype. However, their back-to-back first-round playoff exits, along with another playoff injury to Giannis Antetokounmpo, have lessened the excitement surrounding them. Quietly though, the Milwaukee Bucks have signed the best deal of the 2024 offseason in Gary Trent Jr.
The Milwaukee Bucks Had the Best 2024 Offseason Signing
Other teams in the Eastern Conference have made headlines with significant moves. The Philadelphia 76ers signed Paul George, creating a new Big Three. The New York Knicks traded for Mikal Bridges, adding to their deep roster of talent. The defending champion Boston Celtics also kept their core players intact. All these changes have pushed the Bucks to the background.
Making the Most of the Little They Had
Despite the lack of attention, Milwaukee has quietly made impressive moves this offseason. One of the Bucks’ biggest wins was signing Gary Trent Jr. to a minimum contract. This move went under the radar, but it significantly strengthened the team’s roster. If their stars stay healthy, the Bucks could find themselves back in the title race.
Securing Trent Jr. was the best signing of the offseason. Every contending team searches for versatile wings who can score and defend, especially ones who can play key playoff minutes. Finding a player like Trent Jr. on a minimum contract was nearly impossible, but the Bucks pulled it off. He could be the missing piece they need to make a deep playoff run.
Trent Jr., just 25 years old, brings an impressive resume to Milwaukee. Over the last four seasons, he’s averaged 16.2 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. He’s shot 38.3% from beyond the arc and has proven himself on both ends of the court.
Trent Jr’s Fit on the Milwaukee Bucks
He’ll replace Malik Beasley, a solid shooter but a weak defender. Beasley’s defensive struggles were a major issue, especially when playing alongside Lillard. Trent Jr. offers better defense while still being a reliable shooter. His defense could improve further with less offensive responsibility, although he won’t be an elite defender.
The Bucks faced an offseason challenge, needing to add depth with only minimum contracts available. In addition to Gary Trent Jr., the Bucks signed Taurean Prince and Delon Wright, giving head coach Doc Rivers more lineup options. Credit goes to general manager Jon Horst and the front office for improving the roster under tight financial constraints.
Though Trent Jr. has limited playoff experience, with just 11 games under his belt, he’s still developing. He’s determined to make a significant impact this season, hoping to secure a bigger contract next summer. The Bucks will rely on him to fill their need for a 3-and-D wing, and he’ll get plenty of opportunities to prove himself.
The Last Word
Milwaukee faces a high-stakes 2024-2025 season. If the Bucks fail again, changes will likely follow, possibly even the departure of some star players. However, they’ve assembled the right pieces. It’s now up to the team to deliver on their potential.
