The Bucks were so desperate for a wing with Khris Middleton injured, they traded for Tony Snell.
At least that’s how it seemed last fall.
But Snell has a breakout year, shooting 41% on 3-pointers and playing fine defense. With a dearth of 3-and-D wings, his value is immense.
Yet, it seems Milwaukee will keep the pending restricted free agent.
Marc Stein of ESPN:
Barring a massive offer sheet, I’d expect Milwaukee to re-sign Tony Snell for something in the $10-12 million range
With 14 players locked in, the Bucks are about $9 million below the projected luxury-tax line. Even with a starting salary at that amount, annual raises could push Snell’s average salary over $10 million on a multi-year deal.
But such narrow margins leave Snell ripe for a qualifying offer Milwaukee might be wary of matching.
The Bucks could clear more room by trading or stretching John Henson, Mirza Teletovic and/or Spencer Hawes. Perhaps, that won’t be necessary if Snell agrees to terms quickly.