Gary Trent Jr. Joins Milwaukee Bucks on One-Year Deal
In a notable development during this year’s NBA free agency period, the Milwaukee Bucks have secured the services of Gary Trent Jr. on a one-year contract. The 25-year-old wing, known for his scoring ability and defensive prowess, is set to reunite with Damian Lillard in Milwaukee, enhancing the team’s depth and versatility on the perimeter.
Trent's journey in the NBA began with the Portland Trail Blazers, where he spent two and a half seasons honing his skills and establishing himself as a promising young talent. His tenure in Portland came to an end when he was traded to the Toronto Raptors, with whom he played for three and a half seasons. During his time in Toronto, Trent developed into a reliable scorer and defender, averaging 13.7 points over 28.1 minutes per game in the most recent season. His remarkable shooting ability was highlighted by his 43.1% success rate on pull-up three-point attempts.
The decision to bring Trent to Milwaukee comes as the Bucks aim to make the most of their available resources. “Gary Trent Jr. and the Milwaukee Bucks have agreed to a one-year contract,” an unnamed agent confirmed. This move is seen as a strategic effort to add depth and scoring capability to the team’s roster, crucial for their championship aspirations.
Interestingly, Trent turned down a multi-year contract offer from the Raptors that would have paid him approximately $15 million annually. Instead, he sought a raise on his $18.6 million salary for the 2023-24 season, ultimately choosing the Bucks for this upcoming year.
The Bucks have been active this off-season, making several key acquisitions. Alongside Trent, the team has signed Delon Wright and Taurean Prince on minimum contracts, ensuring that they have a well-rounded squad heading into the new season. These moves indicate Milwaukee's determination to build a team capable of competing at the highest level.
Meanwhile, Malik Beasley, another notable name in this year’s free agency, has signed with the Detroit Pistons. The movement of players like Beasley and Trent shows a dynamic shift in team rosters and strategies as franchises prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season.
In summary, the addition of Gary Trent Jr. to the Milwaukee Bucks is a significant move that bolsters their lineup with a proven scorer and defender. As the Bucks gear up for the new season, all eyes will be on how this integration pans out on the court, especially with Trent reuniting with former teammate Damian Lillard. This signing not only strengthens the Bucks’ roster but also signals their intent to remain competitive in the highly demanding NBA landscape.