Milwaukee Bucks roster reduction

The Milwaukee Bucks have undertaken several roster reductions to meet the October 19 deadline for standard contracts.

Initially, the team requested waivers on Pete Nance, Johni Broome, and Jake Stephens. While Nance’s contract was non-guaranteed, Broome and Stephens were expected to join the Wisconsin Herd. Following these moves, the Bucks maintained 16 players on guaranteed standard contracts.

To reach the required limit of 15 standard contracts, the Bucks subsequently waived guard Kevin Porter Jr. This decision was reportedly a strategic move to address a backcourt logjam and prioritize the development of younger players. The team opted to waive Porter and absorb his $5.39 million salary as dead money rather than accepting a trade offer from the Denver Nuggets. The proposed Denver package included Zeke Nnaji, two future second-round picks, and a second-round pick swap, but the Bucks declined due to an unwillingness to take on Nnaji’s $7.47 million player option for the 2027-28 season. Following his release, Porter is expected to enter free agency.

In final adjustments ahead of their season opener against Washington, the Bucks re-signed Pete Nance to a two-way contract for his third season to manage financial and roster constraints. The departure of Porter, who led the team in assists per game and ranked second in scoring during the 2025-26 season, is expected to increase playing opportunities for younger backcourt players, including rookie Brayden Burries, Kasparas Jakučionis, and Ryan Rollins.

Regarding the front line, center Kel'el Ware expressed optimism about the interior rotation, noting that playing alongside Myles Turner provides more defensive flexibility and shot-blocking support.