Milwaukee Bucks sign AJ Green to a three-year deal

The Bucks add more shooting ability to their roster.

© Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports

The Milwaukee Bucks have added another piece to what they hope would be a championship puzzle by next season’s end, as they signed young marksman A.J. Green to a three-year deal. While the University of Northern Iowa product didn’t see much court time in his rookie season, playing in just 35 games, Green showed plenty of potential to earn himself a nice deal with the Bucks.

Floor spacer

With an offense that revolves around the singular greatness of two-time MVP winner Giannis Antetokounmpo, floor spacing is of paramount importance. This is because it opens up the floor for Giannis to do his thing, whether it’s drive and finish around the rim or facilitate for teammates with pinpoint passes. To achieve this, Milwaukee retained Green, who shot nearly 42 percent from three-point land this past season.

With the Bucks losing reserve guard Jevon Carter, it was crucial for the Bucks to re-sign Green. Carter was one of the team’s best three-point shooters, who feasted on the wide-open looks generated by Giannis’ gravity. With minutes opening up in the backcourt rotation, Green may carve for himself a nice role off the bench.

The Milwaukee Bucks and guard AJ Green agreed to a 3-year deal, sources told @hoopshype. The first year of the deal is fully guaranteed. Green shot 41.9 percent from 3-point range in 35 games for the Bucks last season. Agent Matt Bollero of ProMondo Sports negotiated the deal.

— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) July 6, 2023

Developmental coach

Another thing going for Green is the presence of new head coach Adrian Griffin, whose reputation for developing talent is well-established. Griffin worked with Miami Heat superstar Jimmy Butler during his time with the Chicago Bulls, helping the Marquette ace to develop his all-around skills. He eventually won the Most Improved Player award in 2015, and at his awarding ceremony, Butler made sure to give credit to Griffin.

“All my coaches had a lot to do with it,” Butler said. “But I think Adrian Griffin had a lot because he had to deal with me just being unbearable. I think he has a lot to do with who I am.”