Milwaukee nearly added a defensive stud.
The Milwaukee Bucks missed out on a potential difference-maker in free agency.
After spending the early stages of the offseason making some flashy moves to ensure Giannis Antetokounmpo sticks around, the Bucks have been looking to make some finishing touches to help the team’s chances of contending. Among those moves is the recent signing of Cole Anthony and bringing back some other backcourt help.
While those moves are certainly a step in the right direction for Milwaukee, the Bucks could still use some help in the backcourt, specifically from a veteran. Luckily for Milwaukee, the perfect guy entered the free agent market on Saturday, but the Bucks were unable to secure his services.
On Saturday, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the Washington Wizards agreed to a buyout with Marcus Smart, clearing the way for him to sign a two-year, $11 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers. Smart will give the Lakers another veteran in the backcourt and bring some much-needed defensive intensity, which is exactly what the Bucks could have used from an established guard in free agency.
Charania also reported that the Bucks were one of the teams that had conversations with Smart’s camp in recent days and were one of the finalists to be Smart’s new home alongside the Phoenix Suns.
Missing out on Smart certainly stings for a Bucks team that can use as much help as possible going into next season. However, there are still some solid options in free agency, and Milwaukee could soon pick one up.
Category: Basketball
