The Milwaukee Bucks are ready to take on the 2024-25 season with renewed energy and strategic additions to their roster. After a disappointing first-round exit in the playoffs for the second straight year, the Bucks have been proactive in addressing their needs.
One of the biggest moves was acquiring Damian Lillard in a blockbuster trade last offseason, which saw them part ways with Jrue Holiday, Grayson Allen, and draft picks. Lillard brings elite scoring and playmaking to the team, although the chemistry with Giannis Antetokounmpo is still a work in progress.
In the 2024 NBA Draft, the Bucks selected AJ Johnson with the 23rd overall pick, a promising guard known for his scoring ability and defensive versatility. They also picked up Tyler Smith with the 33rd pick, a forward who brings size and athleticism to their frontcourt. With Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, and Khris Middleton leading the charge, and new additions like the recent one of Gary Trent Jr. ready to contribute, the Bucks are poised to make a deeper playoff run and re-establish themselves as serious championship contenders.
Point Guards
Damian Lillard, Delon Wright, AJ Johnson
Damian Lillard remains the cornerstone of the Bucks’ backcourt. Acquired last offseason in a blockbuster trade, Lillard is one of the premier point guards in the NBA. His ability to score from anywhere on the court, coupled with his playmaking skills, makes him a crucial asset for Milwaukee. Last season, Lillard averaged 24.3 points and 7.0 assists per game, although he faced challenges meshing seamlessly with Giannis Antetokounmpo. This offseason, the Bucks are hopeful that a full training camp will help Lillard and Giannis develop better on-court chemistry, crucial for the team’s success.
Shooting Guards
Pat Connaughton, Gary Trent Jr., AJ Green, Ryan Rollins
Pat Connaughton continues to be a reliable contributor for the Bucks, providing solid defense and three-point shooting. Last season, Connaughton averaged 5.6 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, shooting 43.5% from the field and 34.5% from beyond the arc. His hustle and ability to knock down crucial shots make him an invaluable part of the Bucks' rotation. Connaughton's experience and versatility allow him to guard multiple positions, adding depth and stability to the backcourt.
Gary Trent Jr. became the latest signing by the Bucks this offseason. Recruited by Damian Lillard, the former Blazer will provide his elite shooting and some much-needed defensive impact. Last season with the Raptors, he averaged 13.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists.
AJ Green, entering his second season with the Bucks, is known for his sharpshooting ability. In limited action last season, Green averaged 4.4 points, 1.2 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game while shooting 41.2% from the field and an impressive 40.1% from three-point range. As he gains more experience, Green is expected to take on a larger role in the rotation, providing much-needed scoring off the bench. His development will be key to the Bucks' success in maintaining offensive consistency when the starters rest.
Ryan Rollins joins the Bucks on a two-way contract, bringing additional depth to the shooting guard position. Known for his scoring ability and quickness, Rollins averaged 3.3 points, 1.0 rebounds, and 1.0 assists in 12.5 minutes per game during his rookie season with the Golden State Warriors.
Small Forwards
Khris Middleton, Andre Jackson, MarJon Beauchamp
Khris Middleton remains a pivotal player for the Bucks, bringing both scoring and veteran leadership. Last season, he averaged 15.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, shooting 43.3% from the field and 35.3% from three-point range. Middleton's ability to create his own shot and defend multiple positions makes him a cornerstone of the team's strategy.
Andre Jackson, drafted in the second round of the 2023 NBA Draft, is known for his defensive prowess and athleticism. In his rookie season, he showed flashes of potential, averaging 3.5 points and 2.0 rebounds per game. Jackson's development will be crucial as he continues to adapt to the NBA's pace and physicality.
MarJon Beauchamp, another young talent, adds depth to the small forward position. Last season, Beauchamp averaged 5.0 points and 2.3 rebounds per game, displaying his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. His growth as a reliable scorer and defender will be important for the Bucks' rotational flexibility.
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Power Forwards
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Taurean Prince, Chris Livingston
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the heart and soul of the Bucks, continues to dominate the league with his incredible athleticism and skill. Last season, Giannis averaged 30.4 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game, showcasing his all-around impact on the court. His ability to play multiple positions and defend the paint makes him invaluable to Milwaukee’s success.
Taurean Prince joined the Bucks this offseason as a free agent from the Los Angeles Lakers. Prince averaged 9.1 points and 2.4 rebounds per game last season, providing solid shooting and defense. His addition was influenced by Darvin Ham's return to Milwaukee as an assistant coach, adding familiarity and veteran presence to the team.
Chris Livingston, drafted in the second round of the 2023 NBA Draft, showed promise in limited minutes during his rookie season. He averaged 2.3 points and 1.1 rebounds per game. Livingston's development will be closely watched, as his size and versatility could make him a valuable rotation piece.
Centers
Brook Lopez, Bobby Portis, Tyler Smith
Brook Lopez remains a crucial part of the Bucks' defense and scoring. Last season, Lopez averaged 12.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and an impressive 2.4 blocks per game, while shooting 48.5% from the field and 36.6% from beyond the arc. His ability to protect the rim and stretch the floor makes him invaluable to Milwaukee’s lineup.
Bobby Portis continues to provide energy and scoring off the bench. Last season, Portis averaged 13.8 points and 7.4 rebounds per game, contributing significantly as a versatile big man. His ability to play both power forward and center gives the Bucks flexibility in their rotations. He also shot 50.8% from the field and 40.7% from three-point range, demonstrating his efficiency and range.
Tyler Smith, selected in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft, is a promising young center. Known for his size and athleticism, Smith brings additional depth to the Bucks' frontcourt. While he may start the season learning from veterans like Lopez and Portis, Smith's development will be key to the Bucks' future.
Can The Bucks Win Another Title?
The Milwaukee Bucks are certainly positioned to make a serious run for another NBA championship in the 2024-25 season. The team has made several strategic offseason moves to bolster their roster and address last season’s shortcomings.
The acquisition of veteran guard Delon Wright, as well as Gary Trent Jr., adds depth and defensive versatility to the backcourt, complementing the scoring and playmaking abilities of Damian Lillard. The addition of Taurean Prince, a solid shooter and defender, provides more options on the wing, especially with Darvin Ham returning as an assistant coach, bringing familiarity and proven strategies.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, coming off another stellar season where he averaged 30.4 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game, continues to be the cornerstone of the franchise. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor remains unmatched. Paired with Lillard, who provides elite scoring and playmaking, the Bucks have a formidable duo that can compete with any team in the league.
The supporting cast of Khris Middleton, Brook Lopez, and Bobby Portis remains strong. Middleton's scoring and leadership, Lopez's rim protection and shooting, and Portis's versatility and energy off the bench are critical to the Bucks' success. The young talents like AJ Johnson and Tyler Smith add promising depth, ensuring the team is not overly reliant on their stars.
With Doc Rivers taking over midseason and now having a full offseason to implement his system, the Bucks should benefit from more cohesion and improved chemistry. Rivers' championship experience and ability to manage veteran rosters will be crucial in navigating the long season and playoffs.
The Eastern Conference remains highly competitive with teams like the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat posing significant threats. Health will also be a key factor, as injuries to key players like Giannis and Lillard in recent playoff runs have hampered the Bucks' success.
If the Bucks can stay healthy and integrate their new pieces effectively, they have a strong chance of winning another title. The combination of star power, veteran presence, and young talent, coupled with experienced coaching, positions them well for a deep playoff run and potential championship glory.
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