Free agents the Milwaukee Bucks can pursue that won't break the bank

The Milwaukee Bucks have several free agents that they need to decide on. In fact, they have 10, including All-Star wingman Khris Middleton, who has a player option, and defensive anchor Brook Lopez, who’s an unrestricted free agent. Rotation guys Joe Ingles and Wesley Matthews are also in the same boat, leaving the Bucks with big decisions to make.

Fortunately for the Bucks, there are some free agents on the market that might be able to fill the voids left by their departing players. Here are a couple of options Milwaukee should consider whose price tags might not break their budget:

Darius Bazley

After being considered a key cog for the rebuilding Oklahoma City Thunder from 2019 to 2022, Darius Bazley suddenly became an afterthought for the young, up-and-coming squad. After averaging in double-figures and having a consistent place in the starting lineup from 2020 to 2022, Bazley’s role with the Thunder steadily diminished, and before long, he was shipped to the Phoenix Suns, where he continued to languish on the bench, playing just seven games for the Suns.

Now a free agent, this is a great opportunity for the Bucks to pounce and inject their squad with some youth and some much-needed athleticism. At just 22 years old, Bazley has loads of potential, and with former player development coach Adrian Griffin taking over as head coach, Bazley could finally get the mentorship he needs to reach his full potential.

Justise Winslow

Justise Winslow is a young, versatile player who can fill up the stat sheet when given ample minutes. The 27-year-old’s talent has never been in question ever since he got drafted from Duke in 2015. However, his durability and availability remain to be seen. Last season, Winslow suited up in just 29 games, and in the one before that, just 11 games.

The Bucks are in dire need of young, athletic wings, and when healthy, Winslow ticks a lot of boxes off. He is a solid defender and has the ability to create off the dribble. Under Griffin, he would have the chance to really get comfortable in Milwaukee’s system and develop into an even more complete player than he already is. If Winslow can stay healthy, then this will be one of the more shrewd signings by the Bucks this offseason.