Bucks Waive Tyler Smith After Failed Trade Attempt
The Milwaukee Bucks have officially waived Tyler Smith after failing to secure a trade involving the player. This decision highlights the challenges teams face in negotiating player trades ahead of roster finalizations.
Bucks Attempted Trade for Tyler Smith
Earlier reports indicated that the Bucks were exploring trade possibilities for Smith, the 33rd overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Despite their efforts, NBA insider Michael Scotto revealed that the team could not find any interested parties.
Smith’s Performance and Contract Details
- Tyler Smith played only 23 games last season.
- He is in the second year of a four-year, minimum contract.
- Guaranteed salary for Smith is just under $2 million.
- The contract’s third and fourth years are non-guaranteed.
If the Bucks decided to waive Smith, they would only owe him his salary for the 2025–26 season. This financial flexibility means waiving him is not a significant burden for the franchise.
Potential Future for Smith
Tyler Smith’s future in the NBA remains uncertain. While he might attract interest from other teams due to his lower salary, there is skepticism regarding his immediate value. Many teams may hesitate to use a roster spot unless they are already interested in him for a trade.
Experts suggest that Smith might be more suited for a two-way contract, allowing him to continue developing while providing depth for an NBA team.
Conclusion
As a conclusion to this chapter, the Bucks’ inability to find a trade partner and subsequent decision to waive Tyler Smith demonstrates the competitive nature of NBA roster management. With nearly $14 million available under the luxury tax, the team remains in a strong financial position moving forward.
