Should the Milwaukee Bucks bring back Jevon Carter?

The Bucks have a decision to make regarding backup guard Jevon Carter.

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While free agents Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez will undoubtedly command most of the Milwaukee Bucks’ attention this offseason, there is one name that should not be forgotten: Jevon Carter. A fan favorite, Carter provided instant offense in a reserve role and even did well during the times he started when starting point guard Jrue Holiday sat out either due to injuries or load management.

This offseason, the West Virginia standout has a player option he needs to decide on. If he decides to pick it up, he will get paid $2.24 million. However, if he declines the option, he can become an unrestricted free agent and likely get a bigger payday elsewhere.

Decision-making time

For all intents and purposes, Carter has earned himself a raise for his stellar play this season. He posted career-high numbers of 8.0 points and 2.5 rebounds. Most importantly, the 6-foot-1 guard shot an incredible 42% from beyond the arc, underscoring his importance to a Bucks’ offense predicated on providing star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo sufficient spacing.

Suffocating defense

As great as Carter was on offense, he was just as effective on the other side of the ball. A fierce point-of-attack defender who wouldn’t hesitate to put pressure on the opposing ballhandler, Carter was usually the first man harassing the ball and helping to create turnovers. His tenacity made him a nightmare for opposing guards, and his defensive contributions were invaluable to a Bucks team that was elite on that end all season long.

The Bucks have several roster decisions to make this offseason, but Carter should be a priority. His ability to contribute on both ends of the court gives Milwaukee one of its reliable players, and his presence will be key for any future success.