NBA Rumors: Khris Middleton, Brook Lopez likely to be back with the Milwaukee Bucks
Recent NBA rumors suggest some positive dealings for the Milwaukee Bucks in the future. With a lot of uncertainty hanging in the air, NBA reporter Marc Stein cleared some doubts by mentioning that Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez are likely to return to Milwaukee.
Stein mentioned that there is a great chance that Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez would return next season.
He wrote:
"The working assumption around the league is that both Middleton and Lopez will stay in Milwaukee."
Stein also added:
"But even that comes with considerable uncertainty because A) no one knows yet how much it will cost to re-sign them and B) if the Bucks will have any flexibility to make the moves they need to make to freshen up the rest of the roster."
The Bucks are currently in a bit of a transitional phase. After being knocked out of the first round by the Miami Heat, the Bucks saw immediate personnel changes as championship coach Mike Budenholzer was sacked.
Budenholzer's sacking also left doubts lingering regarding the state of the roster for the next season. With several players due for contract extensions, the Bucks front office will have their hands full.
Stein's report presents an interesting situation for the Milwaukee Bucks. While it does suggest that two key players will be returning for another season, the front office may have a tough time making sense of a contract.
Lopez will be an unrestricted free agent this summer. Meanwhile, Middleton has a player-option that sees him locked in for one more season. However, as per other rumors, Middleton is expected to opt-out, which would make him a free agent this summer as well.
“Speculation is already widespread that a package of the third pick and Anfernee Simons might be used to snag an elite small forward.” 👀👀👀
- @johnhollinger https://t.co/JWAPfmb1Bb
The Milwaukee Bucks need Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez
Considering the value the two bring to the table, Milwaukee would benefit from ensuring the return of Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez. With championship aspirations still on the horizon, the Bucks will hope to return with a stronger unit next season.
The two players have been essential to the Bucks' system under Budenholzer. Having won a championship with the team as well, the Bucks will be additionally served by two players with the necessary championship pedigree.
The main issue is who the Milwaukee Bucks add to their roster to complement their pre-existing trio. It goes without saying that Milwaukee's superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo will continue to be a dominant force in the league for years to come. However, he will need a solid crew of role players to round out the team as they enter a new era.
Also Read: NBA Rumors: Milwaukee Bucks star strongly considering retirement after current contract is up