Milwaukee Bucks 2018 NBA Mock Draft 2.0

The 2018 NBA Draft is only a couple of weeks away. Let’s check in again on a mock draft projection and how it will affect the Milwaukee Bucks.

The Milwaukee Bucks face a very important decision in the 2018 NBA Draft and, subsequently, this mock draft as well. Who they decide to select with the No. 17 overall pick could go a long way in determining just how far this team advances in the 2018-19 season.

That may seem like a lot of pressure for a rookie, especially one who is unknown at this point. However, in order for the Bucks to take that next step and advance in the playoffs, they need one or two more role players to get them there. And there’s no better way to acquire role players when you’re up against the salary cap than through the draft.

The NBA, like most sports, severely underpays its players who are just entering the league. Basically, all of the best contracts are for those players on rookie deals. That’s part of the reason why draft picks are so valuable to some teams.

Given Milwaukee’s booming salary number, which might only increase if they decide to sign restricted free agent Jabari Parker, they need a few more contributors on rookie contracts. Last year’s first-round pick, D.J. Wilson hardly saw the floor. Thon Maker, the 2016 first-rounder, appeared to take a step back in the regular season. And the 2015 first, Rashad Vaughn, is no longer with the team. That makes this year’s pick even more critical.