Bucks Plan to Waive Second-Year Forward Tyler Smith
SLUG: bucks-plan-to-waive-tyler-smith
Milwaukee is expected to release forward Tyler Smith before Monday’s league deadline to trim regular-season rosters, according to Eric Nehm of The Athletic.
Smith, 22, was not present at the Bucks’ open practice on Sunday, signaling that the move is imminent. The decision follows Milwaukee’s choice to retain wing Amir Coffey, leaving Smith and guard Andre Jackson Jr. as the most likely cuts. Jackson had a slightly stronger preseason showing and possesses more NBA experience, improving his chances of staying on the roster.
The 6-foot-11 Smith, selected 33rd overall in last year’s draft after a season with the now-defunct G League Ignite, holds a guaranteed salary of $1,955,377 for 2025-26. If he clears waivers, that amount will remain on the Bucks’ books, though the team sits well below the luxury-tax threshold.
Jackson’s $2,221,677 salary for 2025-26 becomes fully guaranteed if he makes the regular-season roster; his deal previously carried an $800,000 partial guarantee.
As a rookie, Smith appeared in 23 NBA games, averaging 2.9 points in 5.3 minutes. He logged heavier minutes with the Wisconsin Herd, producing 10.7 points, 6.1 rebounds and 0.9 blocks over 25 G League contests while shooting 41.5 percent from the field and 32.7 percent from three.
Smith’s contract runs through 2027-28, though the final two seasons are non-guaranteed.
Source: Hoops Rumors
