Bucks continue pattern of missing on young talent

That move makes it 11 consecutive seasons in which Milwaukee has declined to give a former first-round selection a second deal. Though it may not seem major at first glance, it underscores the Bucks’ continued struggles to identify and develop young talent during Giannis Antetokounmpo’s tenure.

Milwaukee has done everything possible to keep Giannis satisfied, and while cutting Smith may not upset him directly, the overall pattern is hard to ignore. For a small-market franchise, failing to consistently hit on draft picks puts them at a major disadvantage. That inability to develop young talent could be a big factor behind their recent struggles, including three consecutive first-round playoff eliminations.

Bucks decade-long draft failures in the Giannis Era

The Bucks’ inability to capitalize on their draft selections has left them trailing behind their competition. Throughout much of the Giannis era, Milwaukee often selected late in the first round when they actually had a pick to use, but several of those choices ended up being complete misses that provided little value for the future.

Doing so has left the Bucks with very few young players to nurture. There are many ways to build a roster through youth, and the San Antonio Spurs are a perfect example. They built a dynasty by consistently hitting on their draft picks, discovering future Hall of Famers Tony Parker with the 28th pick in 2001 and Manu Ginobili with the 57th pick in 2002.

Parker and Ginobili were instrumental in guiding Tim Duncan to three additional titles and another NBA Finals appearance. Although Giannis often draws comparisons to Duncan, the major contrast is that Duncan thrived alongside a well-built supporting group that the Spurs developed through years of successful drafting.

If Milwaukee had found the same level of draft or undrafted talent that other franchises have managed to uncover, Giannis might already have a second championship to his name.

Instead, the Bucks currently sit as a middle-tier contender in a relatively thin Eastern Conference, a situation that could influence Giannis when he eventually decides whether to stay or seek a new opportunity elsewhere.