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Cole Anthony Expected to Join East Contender Following Buyout

Originally posted on Last Word On Sports | By Josh Greer | Last updated Jul 12, 2025 9:44 PM ET

The Memphis Grizzlies and guard Cole Anthony have agreed to a contract buyout, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The buyout paves the way for the 24-year-old to join a playoff contender. Anthony is expected to sign with the Milwaukee Bucks once he clears waivers. The buyout was negotiated between the Grizzlies and Anthony’s representatives on Saturday night.

Cole Anthony Expected to Join East Contender Following Buyout

Anthony’s Short-Lived Tenure in Memphis

Anthony arrived in Memphis via trade earlier this offseason as the Grizzlies sought veteran depth behind Ja Morant. However, with Morant’s return to full health, the emergence of GG Jackson, and the franchise’s commitment to developing young guards like Javon Small and Vince Williams Jr., Anthony’s role appeared uncertain.

Rather than a burial on the bench, both sides opted for a clean break. For Memphis, the buyout clears additional cap space and allows more minutes for developmental pieces. For Anthony, it offers a chance to play meaningful basketball immediately.

Bucks Betting on Backcourt Depth

The Bucks are actively bolstering their roster around Giannis Antetokounmpo. Milwaukee has prioritized adding scoring punch and backcourt depth following a disappointing early playoff exit last season.

Anthony fits that mold perfectly. A dynamic combo guard known for his shot creation and energy, he averaged 9.4 points, 3.0 assists, and 2.9 rebounds per game last season with the Orlando Magic. His streaky shooting and defensive limitations remain concerns, but the Bucks are betting on his ability to provide a spark off the bench in high-leverage situations.

Apr 15, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic guard Cole Anthony (50) shoots the ball against the Atlanta Hawks in the fourth quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

What This Means for Both Teams

For Memphis, the move aligns with a longer-term vision of internal development and cap flexibility. The Grizzlies are clearly investing in their youth, hoping to return to contention with a retooled and resilient roster.

For Milwaukee, it’s a low-risk, high-upside signing that adds another offensive weapon for a team with championship aspirations. If Anthony meshes well with the veteran-heavy core, he could play a key role as a sixth man or scoring sparkplug in the postseason.

One thing is clear—Cole Anthony is getting a second wind in his career, and the Bucks hope it turns into postseason fuel.

This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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