A primary focus for the team is to rejuvenate its lineup. Injuries to top players Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard during the postseason hampered their efforts. The draft offers an opportunity to infuse new talent. Key players like Brook Lopez, Khris Middleton, Pat Connaughton, and Bobby Portis might be considered for trades.
CBS Sports’ Mock Draft Prediction: Kyle Filipowski to Bucks at 23rd Pick
According to CBS Sports, the Bucks are projected to select Duke Blue Devils standout Kyle Filipowski with the 23rd overall pick. Filipowski, a 6’11” and 230 lbs forward, posted averages of 16.4 PPG, 8.3 RPG, and 2.8 APG in his sophomore season at Duke. CBS Sports’ Cameron Salerno describes Filipowski as one of the most offensively skilled big men in this draft class, capable of stretching the floor and playing inside. He is projected more as a power forward at the NBA level, aligning with current trends in the league.
If the Bucks draft Filipowski, it could signal the end of Brook Lopez’s tenure with the team. Lopez, at 36 years old and with one year left on his contract, has been a reliable presence for Milwaukee but may be replaced by the younger and more versatile Filipowski. Filipowski’s ability to shoot, demonstrated by his 34.8% field goal percentage last season, would be a valuable addition around stars Antetokounmpo and Lillard.
General manager Jon Horst must carefully consider his draft strategy. Trading away their picks without securing a proven player could be a missed opportunity for the Bucks.
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