The Milwaukee Bucks are actively seeking to bolster their roster with sharpshooting talent, particularly eyeing free agent Gary Trent Jr. According to a report from The Athletic’s Shams Charania on July 15, the Bucks are among several contenders pursuing the 25-year-old guard.
Despite Trent’s consistent scoring output and sharpshooting prowess—he holds a career 38.6% three-point shooting average—his market remains subdued due to stringent salary-cap regulations affecting many NBA teams’ spending strategies.
Trent recently concluded a $51.8 million contract with the Toronto Raptors and, despite a slightly underwhelming season statistically, remains a desirable target for teams like the Bucks who are looking to enhance their perimeter game. Milwaukee has already added perimeter depth with acquisitions like Taurean Prince and Delon Wright but aims to further strengthen by potentially signing Trent, especially after losing Malik Beasley to the Detroit Pistons.
However, other playoff contenders, including the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets, face challenges in pursuing Trent due to their salary-cap constraints. The Lakers, for instance, are limited by luxury tax considerations following LeBron James’ recent contract extension. Similarly, the Nuggets, as reported by DNVR Sports’ Harrison Wind, are not actively pursuing Trent due to financial and strategic reasons.
In addition to Trent, the Bucks are also exploring options with other sharpshooters like Landry Shamet, as reported by HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto on July 12. This indicates Milwaukee’s clear emphasis on adding perimeter scoring during the current offseason.
