The Milwaukee Bucks are actively pursuing a stronger backcourt after waiving Damian Lillard and allocating much of the remaining $113 million on his contract to acquire Myles Turner in free agency. While the team has re-signed Ryan Rollins and added Cole Anthony from the buyout market, both players lack proven playoff experience. Consequently, the Bucks are exploring options to bring in a more seasoned point guard to complement their roster.
One notable candidate is former MVP Russell Westbrook, who fits the Bucks’ urgent need for veteran leadership. Westbrook, who declined a $3.5 million player option to remain with the Denver Nuggets, is currently a free agent and among the favorites to sign with Milwaukee. According to offshore sportsbook Bovada, the Bucks hold the third-best odds at 500 to secure Westbrook, trailing only the New York Knicks at -250 and the Sacramento Kings at +350. Other teams in the running include the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, New Orleans Pelicans, and Minnesota Timberwolves.
How Russell Westbrook Could Complement the Bucks’ Championship Ambitions
Russell Westbrook, a nine-time All-NBA point guard and the 2017 MVP, played an important role for Denver last season, averaging 13.3 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game while managing 3.2 turnovers over 75 appearances. While splitting time between the Nuggets’ starting lineup and bench, Westbrook showcased his versatility. At this stage, he is focused on joining a contender capable of making a deep playoff run.
With injuries sidelining key Eastern Conference stars such as Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton, the Bucks, led by their Turner-Giannis Antetokounmpo duo, have positioned themselves as a formidable threat if they maintain health. The departure of Lillard leaves a gap that Westbrook’s playmaking ability could fill by organizing the offense.
However, the fitting of Westbrook alongside Antetokounmpo is not without challenges. Both players share a physical, aggressive style but lack consistent outside shooting, which may present spacing issues on the floor. Despite this, Westbrook’s energy and ability to serve as the offensive catalyst when Antetokounmpo rests may offer the Bucks valuable depth and spark.
Considering Malcolm Brogdon as Another Veteran Option
The Bucks are also considering reconnecting with former Rookie of the Year Malcolm Brogdon, who remains an unrestricted free agent. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, Milwaukee is among eight teams interested in acquiring Brogdon. Fischer noted in The Stein Line Substack newsletter on July 7,
“League sources say that the Wizards are open to sign-and-trade discussions to facilitate Brogdon’s exit and a slew of teams have registered varying levels of interest in the 32-year-old. That list includes the Clippers, Suns and Lakers as well as the Warriors, Timberwolves, Pelicans, Kings and Bucks,”
—Jake Fischer, NBA insider
Brogdon was drafted by the Bucks in 2016, earning Rookie of the Year honors after playing a career-high 75 games with averages of 10.2 points, 4.2 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. Unfortunately, injuries have hampered his progress since. The Bucks chose not to match Indiana Pacers’ sizable offer after his third season, eventually trading him away for future picks they used to sign Jrue Holiday, which ultimately contributed to Milwaukee’s 2021 championship victory.
While Westbrook has demonstrated greater durability recently, Brogdon remains a superior defender. Milwaukee must weigh the veteran presence and offensive initiative Westbrook provides against Brogdon’s defensive strengths and familiarity with the team’s system.
Implications for the Bucks’ Title Pursuit
The potential addition of Russell Westbrook to the Bucks roster signals Milwaukee’s commitment to maximizing their championship window with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Westbrook’s veteran experience and dynamic playmaking could help address the void left by Damian Lillard’s exit, providing stability in the backcourt and enhancing offensive flow. However, balancing the team’s spacing and defensive priorities remains a crucial consideration.
Should the Bucks successfully integrate Westbrook or opt for Malcolm Brogdon, they remain a top contender in the Eastern Conference. Their continued pursuit of complementary guards reflects a strategic effort to support Antetokounmpo’s dominant presence, maintain roster balance, and aggressively chase another NBA title.