Central Division Notes: Bucks’ Draft Streak, Turner’s Free-Agency Twist, LaVine’s Chicago Return, Buzelis’ Breakout
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Milwaukee — By cutting Chris Livingston and Tyler Smith before opening night, the Bucks extended an unusual run: 11 consecutive draft classes without re-upping one of their own selections, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported. The last Milwaukee draftee to sign a second NBA contract with the club was Giannis Antetokounmpo, chosen 15th overall in 2013.
Despite the draft drought, the franchise has unearthed value elsewhere. Undrafted guards Ryan Rollins and A.J. Green have stepped straight into the starting backcourt and helped the Bucks open 4-1. Rollins poured in a career-best 32 points with eight assists against Golden State on Thursday, while Green has hit at least three three-pointers in every game and is shooting 55.2 percent from deep.
Rollins signed a three-year, $12 million deal in July that carries a third-season player option. Green finalized a four-year, $45 million extension moments before the season tipped. ESPN cap analyst Bobby Marks noted those contracts could rank among the league’s most favorable if the guards maintain their early form.
Turner: Haliburton Injury Altered Pacers’ Plans
Myles Turner told teammate Thanasis Antetokounmpo’s podcast that Tyrese Haliburton’s ruptured Achilles in Game 7 of last season’s NBA Finals reshaped the Pacers’ approach to his own free agency. Turner said Indiana had indicated a willingness to “take care of” him until the star guard’s injury prompted the team to “pivot,” leaving the two sides “very far apart” on contract terms.
No Charges for Pacers Rookie Kam Jones
An Indiana prosecutor declined to file charges against first-round pick Kam Jones after state police arrested the guard for erratic driving, Fieldhouse Files reported. Team officials called the incident a learning experience for the rookie.
LaVine Receives Ovation in Chicago Return
Zach LaVine said it “felt like I came home” when he played at United Center for the first time since the Bulls traded him to Sacramento in February. The crowd gave LaVine a standing ovation during a video tribute in the first quarter. “I know I did a lot of good in Chicago,” he said. “I just wish I could have won more here.”
Buzelis Powers Bulls’ Fourth Straight Victory
While LaVine’s homecoming drew headlines, second-year forward Matas Buzelis drove Chicago’s 13-point win, scoring a season-high 27 points on 11-of-18 shooting. The Bulls were plus-18 with the No. 11 pick of the 2024 draft on the floor, extending their winning streak to four games. “He can do it all,” LaVine said of his former teammate.
Source: HoopsRumors
