The Real Winners of Draft Night 2011: The Milwaukee Bucks
The 2011 NBA draft wasn't as exciting as previous drafts. Kyrie Irving went to the Cavs with the number one pick, which was expected. Derrick Williams was picked number two, which was also expected. Something that was not expected was that the Milwaukee Bucks would pick up a player like Stephen Jackson and also unload bad contracts in a draft day deal.
Jackson is an underrated player who will quickly become the Bucks leading scorer. Jackson averaged 18.5 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.6 assists last year, which isn't to shabby. He can do a bit of everything and should lead the Bucks back into the postseason.
The Bucks were also able to rid themselves of Corey Maggette and the two years and about $21 million left on his contract, as well as John Salmons who signed a five-year $39 million dollar deal with them last year. Both these players are above average, but did not help the Bucks much (they couldn't even capture an eighth seed in the abysmal Eastern Conference).
The Bucks also picked up guards Shaun Livingston and Beno Udrih. Livingston came alive in the second half of the season last year and was an asset for Charlotte. Udrih put up 13.8 points, and about 3 assists and 3 rebounds for the Sacramento Kings, and should be a solid backup for Brandon Jennings.
The Bucks did lose the 10th pick however. This could come back to haunt them if Jimmer Fredette has a great career, but that is unlikely. The Bucks are also set at point guard with Brandon Jennings anyway.
In a draft class that isn't spectacular the Bucks are the clear winners. They upgraded their team with a savvy veteran in Stephen Jackson and unloaded some bad contracts. Look for the Bucks to come out hot next season and make the playoffs once again.
