NBA Rumors: Gary Trent Jr. Pursued by Bucks Amid Lakers Buzz in 2024 Free Agency
July 15, 2024
Former Toronto Raptors shooting guard Gary Trent Jr. has drawn interest from the Milwaukee Bucks in free agency, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
Charania noted on Monday that the Bucks are among "several contenders" pursuing Trent after the Raptors "never made an offer" for the sharpshooter to return following the 2023-24 season.
NBA insider Marc Stein reported on Thursday that the Los Angeles Lakers are "exploring pathways" to shed salary in trades and attempt to open up enough room to sign a player such as Trent.
The 25-year-old's production dipped last season as he started off as a reserve before moving into the starting lineup. He recorded 13.7 points per game in 71 appearances after averaging 17.1 points each night over the previous three seasons.
Still, Trent has proven himself as an efficient long-range shooter and connected on 39.3 percent of his triples last season. For his career, he's a 38.6 percent shooter from behind the arc.
It may be difficult for the Bucks to land Trent without making other moves due to the team's financial restrictions, as Milwaukee is currently over the second luxury tax apron (via ESPN's Bobby Marks).
This could be an issue in free agency discussions, as Harrison Wind of DNVR Sports reported on Thursday that Trent would not accept a minimum contract to play with a team such as the Denver Nuggets.
Still, his three-point accuracy would fit extremely well next to Damian Lillard in the backcourt and give superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo more space to work with in the paint. The Bucks could also explore ways to open up more space to sign Trent, as Yahoo Sports' Jake Fischer revealed that Bobby Portis and Pat Connaughton have been mentioned as trade candidates.
As Milwaukee attempts to bounce back from a disappointing first-round playoff exit, Trent could provide some extra floor-spacing for the team's two stars.