Consequences of Flawed Draft Strategy for the Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks' draft strategy of selecting project players has proven to be challenging while in win-now mode.
Over the last three years, the Bucks have drafted five players: Tyler Smith, AJ Johnson, Chris Livingston, Bogoljub Markovic, and Andre Jackson Jr. Only Andre Jackson Jr., who had three years of college experience, remains on the roster for the 2025-26 NBA season.
The other four players had limited college experience, with a combined total of just one year. This lack of experience has made it difficult for the Bucks to develop them, leading to tough decisions.
The Bucks have cut, traded, or stashed the other four players, including AJ Johnson, a 20-year-old first-round pick in 2024, who was sent to the Wizards in the Kyle Kuzma deal after less than a full season with the team.
Author's summary: Bucks' draft strategy is flawed.