The Milwaukee Bucks were one of the biggest, if not the biggest surprise in the NBA last season, going from the worst record in the league to the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs.
That's not to say that Jason Kidd and the Bucks don't need improving.
They have a lot of their core under contract with Khris Middleton the notable exception. He blossomed under Kidd's guidance and Milwaukee would love to have him back in the fold.
What made the Bucks' performance last season all the more amazing was that No. 2 overall pick in the 2014 draft, Jabari Parker, missed a good portion of the season after he tore his ACL. He should be back in time for the 2015-16 season.
They acquired the 2014 Rookie of the Year Michael Carter-Williams and have the Greek Freak, Giannis Antetokounmpo. Milwaukee has a young core.
The Bucks do have some gaping holes. They need help at the shooting guard and also at center, especially after the dismissal of Larry Sanders, a once promising shot-blocking big man. The team traded Ersan Ilyasova earlier in the summer, so help at the power forward to back up Parker is on the radar.
This is not a great draft for shooting guards. At 17th, Milwaukee's best interests may be at the big spots.
Wisconsin's Frank Kaminsky could be on the board, which would be a major coup considering the geographic connection. Texas' Myles Turner could slide down to 17, or Kentucky's Trey Lyles. Arkansas' Bobby Portis, a bruiser who plays both ways with high energy, might be more realistic.
If Milwaukee wants shooting guard help, UNLV's Rashad Vaughn is probably the best available at 17, although that's a little high for him. Same goes for R.J. Hunter of Georgia State.
Under Contract: G O.J. Mayo; C Zaza Pachulia; F Jabari Parker; G Jerryd Bayless; G Michael Carter-Williams; F John Henson; F Giannis Antetokounmpo; G Tyler Ennis; C Miles Plumlee; F Johnny O'Bryant; F Damian Inglis
Free Agents: F Khris Middleton; F Shawne Williams; F Caron Butler (team option); Jared Dudley (early termination)
Recent Draft History:
2014: Jabari Parker (2), Damien Inglis (31), Johnny O'Bryant (36), Lamar Patterson (48)
2013: Giannis Antetokounmpo (15), Ricky Ledo (43)
2012: John Henson (14), Doron Lamb (42)
2011: Jimmer Fredette (10), Jon Leuer (40)
2010: Larry Sanders (15), Darington Hobson (37), Jerome Jordan (44), Tiny Gallon (47)
[SportsNetwork.com]
