The NBA’s free agency season in the summer of 2024 took an unexpected turn when Milwaukee Bucks coach Doc Rivers did something interesting. Fresh off the NBA signing wave, Rivers found himself facing free agent guard Gary Trent Jr.
Regaining a Familiar Face: The Gary Trent Jr. Signing
With a long relationship that dates back to Trent Jr.’s childhood, thanks to his NBA-pro father, Gary Trent Sr., the meeting between Rivers and the younger Trent was a meeting of sorts. Trent Jr., who had a successful run with the Toronto Raptors for three and a half seasons, was left without a team following failed attempts to secure an extension or multi-year deal.
Rumors around the basketball world have suggested that Trent Jr. may be open to a one-year contract through the 2024-25 NBA season. Without hesitation, Mfula seized this opportunity. The Bucks were looking for a replacement for Malik Beasley and saw potential in Trent Jr., whose youthful energy would mesh well with Milwaukee’s formidable duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.
Calculated Strategy: The Buccaneers’ Offseason is Underway
The signing of Trent Jr. was the highlight of the offseason for the Bucks, a team that has emphasized strategic depth over game-changing players. They also traded away players like Jae Crowder and Patrick Beverley, who gave up their playoff bottoms, for experienced backups like Delon Wright and Taurean Prince.
The Bucks’ continuity strategy was a welcome relief after a year of significant changes, including the hiring and firing of head coach Adrian Griffin and the replacement of Jrue Holiday for Lillard.
Adopting Stability Amidst Champion Expectations
Antetokounmpo expressed confidence in the team’s stability after their first-round loss against the Indiana Pacers, stressing the importance of understanding the team’s direction. Buckeyes General Manager Jon Horst has faced challenges in reorganizing the roster due to draft picks from previous trades and the limitations of the new collective bargaining agreement.
Bucks’ Bold Moves: Damian Lillard’s Arrival and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Extension
Despite these limitations, the Bucks were able to make a significant move before the start of training camp by acquiring Lillard in a solid trade with the Portland Trail Blazers. The move paired the All-NBA guard with the two-time MVP, creating a dynamic partnership that led to Antetokounmpo signing a three-year, $186 million extension.
Overcoming the Challenges: The Lillard and Antetokounmpo Adjustments
The team’s positive momentum hit a snag, however, as Lillard struggled to adjust to a new environment and build chemistry with Antetokounmpo. The Buckeyes’ performance backfired, leading to a change of coach and an early exit.
Looking Ahead: Building Chemistry and Facing Competition
With the full season and training camp in the offing, Coach Rivers has an opportunity to establish a style of play that fits the team’s vision. The Bucks are banking on this time to strengthen the chemistry between Lillard and Antetokounmpo.
Despite the team’s age and high expectations, the Bucks remain optimistic about their chances in the highly competitive Eastern Conference. With a combination of experience, strength, and a few tactical additions, they hope to capitalize on Antetokounmpo’s prime years and aim for another championship run.
Future Now: Antetokounmpo on Bucks’ Prospects
“We are growing. “We’re not young, but that doesn’t mean we can’t play at a high level,” Antetokounmpo said. The Buccaneers’ journey in the 2024-25 season will be a testament to this belief.
