Yardbarker
x
Adding Trent Jr. should change how we look at Bucks' offseason
Milwaukee Bucks guard Gary Trent Jr. Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Adding Gary Trent Jr. should change how we look at Bucks' offseason

The Milwaukee Bucks have been quiet throughout the opening weeks of free agency. Despite a first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Indiana Pacers, they have refused to panic. Instead, the front office has taken an intelligent approach to the offseason by adding high-quality veterans on low-cost deals. 

Taurean Prince and Delon Wright both joined the franchise on veteran-minimum contracts. However, neither of those additions is projected to move the needle. Milwaukee was still a step behind the Eastern Conference's biggest contenders. That all changed on Tuesday. Milwaukee added Gary Trent Jr. on a one-year "prove yourself" veteran-minimum contract.

Trent, 25, is a versatile wing who can light it up from the perimeter. Last season, he shot 39.3% from deep on 6.4 attempts per game. He can also score off the dribble, create his own shot and defend multiple positions. He's the ideal role player for a team that was craving reliable floor spacing. 

Most importantly, Trent provides much-needed insurance for Khris Middleton, who has struggled to remain healthy over the past two seasons. Milwaukee now has two high-level movement shooters who are also highly effective when spotting up. Doc Rivers can develop some interesting substitution patterns to ensure there's always a catch-and-shoot threat on the court when Giannis Antetokounmpo is in the game. 

Milwaukee ranked 11th in three-point percentage last season, converting 37.3% of its attempts. Nevertheless, its spacing often proved to be an issue, especially when Giannis and Damian Lillard shared the court. 

Trent's addition repositions the Bucks as a serious threat in the East. What was emerging as a disastrous summer has quickly turned into a masterclass on filling out a roster on a tight budget. 

Adam Taylor

Adam Taylor is a sports journalist based out of the UK. Adam has been covering the NBA for nearly a decade with a core focus on the Boston Celtics. He currently holds bylines with Yardbarker, SB Nation and USA Today

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!