6 Bucks Entering Their Final Season With Milwaukee

Brook Lopez

Brook Lopez spent the summer swirling in trade speculation as fans and analysts debated whether Milwaukee should cut ties with the veteran center. It wasn’t just idle chatter—Lopez’s uncertain contract status makes this a pivotal season for his future in Milwaukee.

Lopez is in the final year of his deal and will enter unrestricted free agency next summer. Even if the Bucks want to retain him, they’re stuck until the offseason, as he’s ineligible to sign an extension during the year. That leaves Milwaukee in a precarious position—do they roll the dice and risk losing him for nothing, or explore trade options before the deadline?

There’s also the age factor. Lopez is 36 years old, and although he continues to defy the usual aging curve, it's only natural to wonder how much longer he can anchor an elite defense. Milwaukee could decide to move him mid-season if they sense a dip in his play or if there's any signal he could retire next summer. Recouping some assets might be better than watching him walk away for nothing.

That said, Lopez’s importance to this season’s success cannot be overstated. The Bucks need him to patrol the paint and protect the rim, minimizing the amount of time he spends chasing guards around the perimeter. As their defensive anchor, Lopez will play a critical role in holding together a defense that has undergone key changes.

Offensively, he will remain a dependable floor spacer. His ability to pull opposing bigs out of the paint creates the space Lillard and Antetokounmpo need to thrive. Lopez might not post gaudy box score numbers, but his impact will be felt.

Whether this is his farewell tour in Milwaukee or not, Lopez is poised to be an essential piece of the puzzle as the Bucks chase another title.