Consequences of Flawed Draft Strategy
The Milwaukee Bucks' draft strategy of taking project players has proven to be ineffective while in win-now mode.
Over the last three years, the Bucks have drafted five players: Tyler Smith, AJ Johnson, Chris Livingston, Bogoljub Markovic, and Andre Jackson Jr. Only Andre Jackson, who had three years of college experience, remains on the roster for the 2025-26 season.
- Tyler Smith
- AJ Johnson
- Chris Livingston
- Bogoljub Markovic
- Andre Jackson Jr.
Notably, AJ Johnson, a 20-year-old first-round pick in 2024, was traded to the Wizards in the Kyle Kuzma deal after less than a full season with the team.
Drafting project players when contending for a title is tough to do because there isn't a clear-cut pathway to develop them.
The Bucks have been forced to make tough decisions, cutting, trading, or stashing four of their drafted players.
Author's summary: Bucks' draft strategy proves ineffective in win-now mode.