Bucks' Pat Connaughton exercises $5.7M option to remain with team

Earlier this week, Thanasis Antetokounmpo also exercised his player option to return to the Bucks this season.

Connaughton proved to be one of the most important players on the Bucks last season. With Bobby Portis thrust into starting duties for most of the season, Connaughton became the sixth man off of the bench. In 2021-22, he averaged a career-high 26.0 minutes per game. As a result, he averaged a career-high in many other statistical categories. This past season, Connaughton averaged 9.9 points while also shooting 45/40/83 from the floor. All except his free throw shooting percentage were career highs.

In addition to these numbers, Connaughton also averaged 4.2 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game. During the playoffs this year, Connaughton was one of the few bright spots on the Bucks roster during the series with the Boston Celtics. With Khris Middleton out, he averaged 10.3 points and 4.6 rebounds while shooting 52/43/100 from the floor.

Fans React to Pat Connaughton Picking Up His Player Option

After Connaughton averaged 9.2 points and 5.8 rebounds per game in the NBA Finals against the Phoenix Suns, it became apparent to everyone how important he was to the success of the team. After the news of his decision came today, fans shared positive reactions on social media.

What Is Next for the Milwaukee Bucks?

Now that both Antetokounmpo and Connaughton have opted in for next season, the Bucks are waiting for Portis to make a decision on his player option. It was reported earlier this offseason that Portis was expected to sign a multi-year contract extension with the Bucks. However, he recently cleared his Twitter of all things Bucks, which has led some fans to worry that he may leave.

Of course, the Bucks are preparing for the NBA draft. There was recently a report that the Bucks are one of three teams looking to trade with Cleveland for the 14th overall pick.