The Milwaukee Bucks are quietly doubling down on stability this offseason — and it might be their smartest move yet. In a day packed with headline-grabbing deals, the Bucks’ front office stayed steady, finalizing two low-key but critical signings to reinforce their core: Kevin Porter Jr. returns on a two-year, $11 million contract, and Taurean Prince re-signs on a two-year, $7.1 million deal.
Both players bring valuable tools to a Milwaukee team that’s still aiming to squeeze another championship out of the Giannis Antetokounmpo era — but this time with a renewed sense of structure and complementary pieces.
The Bucks are also bringing back a proven sniper, re-signing Gary Trent Jr. to a two-year, $7.5 million deal with a player option. Trent, who averaged 11.1 points while shooting 41.2% from three, returns as a key floor spacer in Milwaukee’s playoff push. With a low-cost, high-upside contract, Trent gets the chance to boost his value before re-entering free agency next summer — just in time for a wider cap-spending landscape.
Kevin Porter Jr. – A Calculated Bet with High Upside
Let’s start with Porter Jr., who arguably flew under the radar this season. After signing with Milwaukee mid-year, the 24-year-old guard quickly proved his value, averaging 11.7 points, 3.7 assists, and shooting a career-best 41% from deep across 30 games. For a team that has at times struggled with shot creation behind Damian Lillard and Kyle Kuzma, KPJ offered both scoring punch and secondary playmaking.
His chemistry with Giannis was immediate — he spaced the floor, attacked closeouts, and didn’t demand touches to be effective. At just $5.5 million per year, this contract is a steal. And with a player option for 2026–27, it gives both sides flexibility if Porter levels up into a full-time starter or key sixth man.
Grade: A–
This is one of the most team-friendly guard deals of the offseason so far.
Taurean Prince – Veteran Glue and Defensive Versatility
Meanwhile, Taurean Prince’s return brings a familiar face back into a rotation that values consistency and toughness. While his numbers aren’t flashy — 9.0 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 36.4% from three — his role is critical. Prince guards the opposing team’s best wings, spaces the floor reliably, and plays smart team defense.
Having played under a variety of systems, Prince knows how to fit next to stars. Whether he’s guarding Jayson Tatum in a playoff series or stepping up in injury-riddled stretches, Prince is the type of player championship contenders lean on. He won’t be closing every game — but you’ll be glad he’s on your bench.
Grade: B+
Veteran leadership, defensive insurance, and no cap-breaking risk.
What It Means for Milwaukee’s Future
These aren’t blockbuster moves — but they might be the kind that keeps Milwaukee in the contender conversation. The Bucks aren’t going for splash. They’re reinforcing their second unit with versatile two-way players who already know the system, the locker room, and the expectations. And in a season where the East is expected to be wide open, cohesion might just be the biggest X-factor.
Don’t forget: Milwaukee’s core is aging. With Lillard entering his mid-30s and Kuzma battling injuries, these cost-effective, floor-raising deals around Giannis are more valuable than ever. Expect Porter Jr. and Prince to play huge roles in stabilizing lineups and spacing the floor, especially in the long regular season grind.
