The Milwaukee Bucks find themselves in a unique position for the 2024 NBA Draft, holding the 23rd and 33rd picks. They can’t afford to take risks on unproven talent, especially after their disappointing playoff exits the past two seasons.
With Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, and Khris Middleton still on the roster, the Bucks are poised to remain competitive, but they need to strengthen their supporting cast.
The 2024 Draft presents some intriguing options, but given their recent draft history, the Bucks must tread carefully. Trading draft picks for seasoned veterans hasn’t paid off in recent years, and picking the wrong prospect could disrupt team chemistry and hinder their quest for sustained success.
While there’s plenty of discussion about which prospects the Bucks should consider, it’s also crucial to recognize those they should avoid based on their current needs and team structure. Here are some prospects the Bucks should steer clear of.
No. 4 – Bronny James, USC
While Bronny James is a highly touted prospect—largely due to his famous last name—there are still many questions about his readiness for the NBA. Despite being a talented high school player, the jump to the professional level is substantial, and like many players at this stage, his development will likely take time.
By the time of the draft, the Bucks may need an immediate contributor who can seamlessly fit into their championship-caliber roster.
This isn’t to say that Bronny couldn’t potentially help the Bucks. The team thrives on a specific system of strong defense, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dominance, and efficient role players. Defensively, Bronny shows promise with a solid frame suitable for guarding most players and above-average strength and lateral quickness.
However, his size and offensive skill set may not be ideal, especially since the Bucks already have a shorter guard in Damian Lillard. Bronny is not yet (and might never be) an exceptional shooter, which could limit spacing for Giannis’ drives.
Moreover, drafting Bronny would bring significant media attention due to his association with LeBron James. This pressure could overshadow his development and affect team chemistry. The Bucks might prefer to avoid this and focus on a player who can thrive under less scrutiny.
With Giannis in his prime, the Bucks are in a win-now mode. Drafting Bronny, who may require considerable development time, might not align with their immediate needs. While Bronny has potential, the Bucks might benefit more from selecting a polished prospect ready to contribute right away.
Ultimately, while Bronny James could develop into a valuable NBA player, the Bucks should prioritize finding a player who can help them achieve their championship goals immediately. Bronny’s development might be better served on a team that can afford to be patient, whereas the Bucks need someone who can make an immediate impact.
