The Milwaukee Bucks finished the 2025-26 season at 32-50 and missed the playoffs for the first time in more than a decade. Giannis Antetokounmpo played a limited role because of injury, and persistent trade speculation surrounds his future. Everything in their draft approach now hinges on whether the two-time MVP remains in Milwaukee past the June 23 draft.

Their projected No. 10 pick offers a chance to address clear roster holes, but the front office must decide between immediate contributors and longer-term fits. The team added Ryan Rollins via trade earlier and signed undrafted players like AJ Green, Pete Nance and Cormac Ryan. Those moves have not offset the lack of high-end perimeter talent.

Milwaukee lacks length and switchability on the wing. Undersized options like AJ Green and Gary Trent Jr. struggled in perimeter matchups. A versatile 6-foot-9 forward such as Yaxel Lendeborg, who averaged 15.1 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.2 assists while shooting 51.5 percent from the field and 37.2 percent from three in 40 games at Michigan, would provide the defensive versatility and spacing the Bucks need across multiple positions.

Labaron Philon Jr. represents another targeted solution. The 6-foot-4 Alabama guard posted 22.0 points, 5.0 assists and 3.5 rebounds on 50.1 percent shooting and 39.9 percent from three in 33 games. He flashed lead-guard instincts in late-season outbursts that included multiple 35-point outings. Pairing him with Rollins could stabilize the backcourt regardless of Giannis' status.

The June 23 draft marks the clearest decision point. Any Giannis trade would reshape Milwaukee's entire offseason plan and potentially shift their focus toward additional frontcourt help. If the superstar stays, the emphasis remains on players who can contribute right away rather than developmental projects.

The Bucks' recent success with overlooked talent like Rollins shows they can find value outside the lottery. Yet the 10th pick demands a higher ceiling to accelerate the rebuild or extend their contention window.