2. Bucks re-sign Middleton
The Milwaukee Bucks had the best regular season record in the NBA last season, and they were viewed as the title favorite entering the playoffs. Instead, Giannis Antetokounmpo suffered an injury, and his team was upset in the opening round.
The Heat went all the way to the NBA Finals, but the shocking loss forced chances in Milwaukee. Mike Budenholzer was fired as head coach and replaced by Adrian Griffin. The Bucks had two key free agents that they had to re-sign to stay in title contention.
Khris Middleton was the first to return on a new three-year $102 million contract. The three-time All-Star battled injuries last season, but he proved he still has it in the playoffs. Milwaukee was not replacing him, so they quickly worked out a new deal.
What Middleton will the Bucks get next season? The annual 20-point per-game scorer or the guy who was limited to 33 regular season games because of his health? It is too early to tell, but the 6’7 wing provides plenty of value when on the floor.
The Bucks added Robin Lopez and Malik Beasley in free agency along with surprisingly bringing back Jae Crowder. They needed to keep Khris Middleton and the next player to remain in title contention, and Milwaukee did that and more in the opening days of free agency.