The Milwaukee Bucks have had a hectic offseason in an attempt to show franchise cornerstone Giannis Antetokounmpo that they are still in win-now mode.
Following Damian Lillard’s torn Achilles in the team’s third consecutive first-round playoff exit, Milwaukee waived and stretched the remaining $113 million on his contract. This move freed up the necessary cap space to sign former Indiana Pacers big man Myles Turner to a four-year, $108.9 million contract. The club was also active in re-signing role players from the 2024-25 campaign while adding a few new contributors in free agency.
Still, a big swing from last season may continue to haunt Bucks fans. The team traded Khris Middleton, 2024 first-round pick AJ Johnson and a first-round pick swap for a package centered around Kyle Kuzma. However, the 30-year-old forward had a negative impact in the postseason, and there are certainly questions surrounding his fit alongside Antetokounmpo.
MORE: Thanasis Antetokounmpo reveals reason for re-signing with Bucks
Kyle Kuzma trade questions linger
Nathaniel Holloway of Athlon Sports believes Kuzma’s fit on the Bucks is questionable, and he could be a trade candidate if his playoff struggles carry over into the 2025-26 campaign.
“In the second half of the season, the 30-year-old forward played a key role for the Bucks, though he did struggle at times and his fit alongside Giannis is in question,” he wrote. “Because of this, Kuzma may once again be on the trade block entering this season as Milwaukee could look to move him to land a player more fit for their lineup.”
Kuzma averaged 14.5 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists while shooting 33.3 percent from beyond the arc across 31.8 minutes per game in 33 regular-season appearances with Milwaukee last season. The former first-round pick was even more underwhelming in the postseason, averaging 5.8 points and 2.2 rebounds while shooting 34.3 percent from the field in 20.6 minutes per contest.
Considering the assets Milwaukee gave up to acquire him, Kuzma has fallen short of expectations. However, a new role off the bench as a sparkplug could help Kuzma regain his rhythm.
Whether he returns to the starting lineup is uncertain, but if he continues to struggle alongside Antetokounmpo, the Bucks may look to move on.
MORE NBA NEWS:
