What's Happening?
The Milwaukee Bucks have signed and subsequently waived John Butler Jr. and Stephen Thompson Jr. as part of their preseason roster adjustments. Both players were signed to Exhibit 10 contracts, which are
typically used to bring players into training camp with the possibility of converting to two-way contracts. Butler, a center, and Thompson, a guard, have both spent time with the Wisconsin Herd, the Bucks' G League affiliate. Butler averaged 7.6 points and 4.6 rebounds in the G League last season, while Thompson contributed 14.1 points per game.
Why It's Important?
These roster moves are part of the Bucks' strategy to evaluate talent and build depth for the upcoming NBA season. By signing players to Exhibit 10 contracts, the Bucks can assess their potential contributions to the team while maintaining flexibility in their roster. For Butler and Thompson, this opportunity allows them to showcase their skills and potentially earn a spot on the Bucks' roster or continue developing with the Herd. The use of Exhibit 10 contracts is a common practice in the NBA, providing teams with a mechanism to manage player development and salary cap considerations.
What's Next?
Following their waivers, Butler and Thompson are expected to return to the Wisconsin Herd, where they can continue to develop their skills and potentially earn bonuses if they remain with the affiliate for a specified period. The Bucks will continue to monitor their progress and may consider them for future call-ups based on team needs and player performance. This process highlights the dynamic nature of NBA rosters and the importance of the G League in player development.
