Bucks Zone

Report details how Danilo Gallinari ended up signing with the Milwaukee Bucks

The Italian forward wants a shot at an NBA title.

Jonas Panerio

© David Reginek-USA TODAY Sports
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Veteran forward Danilo Gallinari had his fair share of suitors before deciding to join the Milwaukee Bucks. The Los Angeles Clippers, the Phoenix Suns, the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Chicago Bulls expressed interest in signing the 35-year-old Italian, who was traded to the Detroit Pistons but eventually got bought out. Ultimately, Gallinari opted to sign with a championship-contending team, the Bucks, where he could play a significant role.

Tough decision

According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Gallinari contemplated what his next career move was going to be. In the end, it came down to the Bucks and the Clippers—a Western Conference squad that has the personnel to make a run at the NBA title this season and the ones to come.

“Gallinari debated back and forth on the decision for days between the Bucks and Clippers. The Italian forward weighed a reunion with former coach Doc Rivers, whom he averaged a career-high 19.8 points under, shot a career-best 46.3 percent from the field, and averaged a career-high 6.1 rebounds during their time with the Clippers,” Scotto wrote.

However, Rivers apparently offered Gallinari a more substantial role with the Bucks, which may have been the tipping point for the Italian's decision.

Can still help the Bucks

Gallinari is averaging only 7.3 points and 2.8 rebounds per game in 32 games this season for the Washington Wizards and the Pistons. A career 15-points-per-game scorer who has shot over 38 percent from long range, Danilo can provide the Bucks some much-needed spacing on the court.

On a team that employs superstars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, Gallinari won’t be expected to shoulder a lot of scoring chores, but his presence alone can open up driving lanes for the two All-Stars.

The Bucks are currently sitting in third place in the Eastern Conference, and adding Gallinari to their roster could give them an even stronger chance of making it to the NBA Finals. The 6-foot-10 forward brings experience and versatility to a team that is already filled with talented players.

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Jonas Panerio
JONAS PANERIO