The Milwaukee Bucks have agreed to a deal with the savvy veteran guard/forward Wesley Matthews. By conducting a sign-and-trade that sent Malcolm Brogdon to the Indiana Pacers, there was a void to be filled on the roster.
Free agent G Wesley Matthews has agreed to a deal with the Milwaukee Bucks, league sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2019
The former Rookie of the Year Brogdon brought a defensive toughness that rounded out the lineups the Bucks would put together on the floor. He played with pace, was able to run the offense, and has been a 40.8 percent three-point shooter for his career. During their run to the Eastern Conference Finals this past season, he was widely seen as a pivotal role player to their success.
While the Bucks brought back two main pieces in Brook Lopez and Khris Middleton, they were aware that they would need a solidified ball-handler and shooter off the bench. They got a two for one with this steal.
Although Matthews spent his time on three teams this past season, he finished averaging 12.2 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. He shot 37.2 percent from three-point range, which should increase as the MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo will draw double-teams near the basket.
In a guard driven league, it’s imperative that teams are adding players that can put pressure on defenses. Whether it’s attacking the rim or keeping them honest with efficient outside shooting, players like Matthews can prove vital in a playoff series. The Bucks were within 2 wins of making the NBA Finals and look to run it back with their core intact.