Saturday, September 28, 2024

Milwaukee Bucks $28 Million Player Called Overpaid — Here’s Why

Like All-Star forward Khris Middleton, there are a few guys on the Milwaukee Bucks roster who have been identified as overpaid. One of them is reserve forward Pat Connaughton in an analysis of the team’s players and their overall value to the franchise.

Connaughton’s contributions to the Bucks often go unnoticed, but his versatility and tireless work ethic are indispensable to the team’s success. The veteran forward may not be known like Giannis Antetokounmpo or Damian Lillard, but he prides himself on being the Bucks’ Swiss Army knife.

- Advertisement -
November 30, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Milwaukee Bucks point guard Pat Connaughton (24) arrives at the United Center before a basketball game against the Chicago Bulls. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

Connaughton, who is in his sixth season with the team, he explained that he had learned to combine the different styles of play of his former teammates, such as Wes Matthews’ lockdown defense and three-point shooting. He also got to showcase his playmaking skills more under head coach Doc Rivers.

Despite a ponderous start to the season, Connaughton has played a key role in the Bucks’ resurgence since the All-Star break, a change he credited to his growing understanding of Rivers’ game plan and his commitment to doing whatever it takes to assist the team win.

Whether it’s knocking down open threes, pulling the ball up or making the right passes, Connaughton is always ready to lend a helping hand. He may not crave the limelight, but his impact on the Bucks’ success is undeniable. As Rivers’ team continues to build chemistry, Connaughton’s versatility and team-first mindset will be key to their quest for an NBA championship.

Milwaukee Bucks’ Pat Connaughton has been identified as one of the team’s overpaid players.

Milwaukee Bucks, Pat Connaughton
December 7, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Milwaukee Bucks point guard Pat Connaughton (24) warms up before the game against the Indiana Pacers at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports

While there is no denying his contributions to Milwaukee, there is still the question of how productive he is for the money he is paid. This can be seen in the analysis by Rudy LB for a Behind the Buck pass about overpaid team players.

“Can Pat Connaughton be a key part of the Milwaukee Bucks’ future championship run? Of course he can! But what this team and this franchise need to figure out is how they can get the most out of him for the rest of the year.

“Again, looking ahead to the 2024-2025 season, there are some early predictions for Connaughton’s numbers. It looks like 10 points and five rebounds per game is decent production for him. Also, like Khris Middleton, if the Bucks can get 70+ games from Pat Connaughton, that would be a huge win for the franchise,” LB wrote.

Connaughton’s continued presence in the Bucks lineup is assured three-year contract worth $28.27 million which runs through the 2025-26 season. The veteran forward will continue to earn a flat annual salary of $9.42 million, providing the team with his versatile skill set for the foreseeable future.

Milwaukee Bucks, Pat Connaughton
November 18, 2023; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Pat Connaughton (24) drives to the basket against Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II (2) during the second half at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports

The question remains whether Connaughton will exceed expectations this upcoming season or fade from view. However, Milwaukee will need his support if they want to win another ring.

Milwaukee Bucks, Pat Connaughton
November 24, 2023; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Pat Connaughton (24) of the Milwaukee Bucks team during the game against the Washington Wizards at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

More information about sports in Wisconsin:

Follow us on Twitter: @WiSportsHeroics. Also check out our Merchandise Here! Get 20% off with code “WSH”. To read more of our articles and stay up to date with the latest on ALL Wisconsin sports, click here! Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Breweries, Milwaukee Bucks, Wisconsin Badgers.

book sportsman 1 1
Book your MSM 2023 CTA athlete appearance

Mayfield Sports Marketing

Call Mayfield Sports Marketing at 262-366-8188 to schedule Green Bay Packers players or alumni for your corporate presentation or product promotion. Our booking agents will work on your behalf to get you the best price for your chosen sports speaker. Mayfield Sports Marketing has earned a reputation as the go-to person to book top athletes to speak at events and trade shows. To learn more about the costs and fees for booking Packers players or alumni, call us today. www.MayfieldSports.com.

Hot Topics

vertshock.com

Related Articles