The Milwaukee Bucks have once again demonstrated why they remain one of the NBA’s most forward-thinking and competitive franchises, making a calculated offseason move by acquiring Cole Anthony. This addition is not just a simple roster tweak—it is a bold, strategic statement of intent from general manager Jon Horst and the Bucks’ front office. At a time when championship windows can close as quickly as they open, Milwaukee’s acquisition of Anthony is a masterstroke that strengthens their offensive creativity, provides another dynamic ball-handling option alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, and injects defensive versatility that could prove critical in a grueling playoff run. This move, while unexpected to some, aligns perfectly with the franchise’s long-term philosophy: building a sustainable, well-rounded roster capable of adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the modern NBA.
Cole Anthony, a young, energetic guard who has already shown flashes of brilliance during his time in Orlando, brings a skill set that seamlessly complements the Bucks’ existing core. His ability to create shots off the dribble, push the pace in transition, and play both on and off the ball gives head coach Doc Rivers a new weapon to deploy in multiple lineups. Milwaukee’s offense, which has at times become overly reliant on Giannis’ downhill attacks or Lillard’s perimeter shooting, now gains a third initiator—someone who can alleviate pressure, break down defenses, and keep the ball moving when the primary stars are resting or being heavily defended. In a league where versatility and depth often determine postseason success, this is the kind of addition that could make the difference between falling short in the Eastern Conference Finals and hoisting another Larry O’Brien trophy.
To truly understand the brilliance of this move, one has to look at the Bucks’ recent trajectory. Since winning the NBA championship in 2021, the team has faced both external expectations and internal challenges. Injuries, roster turnover, and coaching changes have tested their resilience. The blockbuster trade for Damian Lillard in 2023 was a monumental gamble that paired one of the league’s most dominant interior forces in Giannis with one of its deadliest perimeter assassins in Lillard. While that move transformed the Bucks into an offensive juggernaut on paper, it also left them with depth questions, particularly in the guard rotation. Jrue Holiday’s departure, while necessary to acquire Lillard, left a void defensively and in the team’s secondary playmaking. Adding Cole Anthony is an answer to that lingering concern, providing a young, athletic guard who can step into crucial moments without hesitation.
Anthony’s journey in the NBA has been one of perseverance and growth. Drafted by the Orlando Magic with the 15th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, he entered the league with high expectations due to his prolific scoring at North Carolina and his pedigree as the son of former NBA veteran Greg Anthony. In Orlando, he displayed flashes of being a fearless scorer, capable of creating his own shot and attacking the rim with confidence. However, playing on a rebuilding Magic team often meant inconsistent roles and a lack of veteran structure around him. In Milwaukee, Anthony steps into a completely different environment—one that is structured, playoff-tested, and hungry for another title. Surrounded by veteran stars like Giannis, Lillard, and Khris Middleton, Anthony’s strengths can be maximized while his weaknesses are minimized. He will not be asked to carry the offensive load but rather to complement it, thrive in his role, and bring energy and versatility to the second unit.
From a strategic standpoint, Jon Horst’s decision to target Anthony is emblematic of his ability to identify undervalued talent that fits the Bucks’ championship blueprint. Horst, who has been instrumental in building the roster that delivered the 2021 championship, understands that the modern NBA demands not just star power but also balance, adaptability, and depth. In acquiring Anthony, the Bucks are essentially doubling down on their philosophy of surrounding Giannis and Lillard with players who can create, defend, and compete at a high level. This move is not a flashy headline-grabber like the Lillard trade, but it is the kind of smart, under-the-radar addition that championship teams often make. It is reminiscent of the Bucks’ earlier acquisitions of players like Bobby Portis or Pat Connaughton—moves that did not dominate the news cycle but proved invaluable during deep playoff runs.
One of the most intriguing aspects of adding Anthony is how he could potentially unlock new offensive schemes for Doc Rivers and the coaching staff. The Bucks’ offense, while potent, has sometimes been predictable in high-stakes playoff series. Opposing defenses often load up on Giannis, build a wall in the paint, and force the ball out of Lillard’s hands. With Anthony in the mix, Milwaukee gains another guard who can collapse defenses with dribble penetration, kick the ball out to shooters, or take advantage of mismatches in pick-and-roll situations. His quick first step and ability to finish around the rim make him a threat that defenses must respect. Moreover, Anthony’s improving three-point shot means he can also space the floor, creating more room for Giannis’ interior dominance.
Defensively, while Anthony is not known as an elite stopper, he brings athleticism, energy, and a willingness to compete on that end of the floor. On a team with established defenders like Brook Lopez and Middleton, Anthony will not be asked to guard the opposing team’s best players but can focus on playing within the system, applying ball pressure, and using his quickness to disrupt opposing guards. His presence also allows the Bucks to experiment with smaller, faster lineups, particularly when Giannis is at the center position, creating matchup nightmares for opponents.
The timing of this move is equally significant. The Eastern Conference is as competitive as it has ever been. Teams like the Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, and Philadelphia 76ers are all legitimate threats to contend for the title. The Bucks know that simply having Giannis and Lillard is not enough—they need a supporting cast that can withstand the rigors of a seven-game series against elite competition. Cole Anthony adds a layer of unpredictability and depth that could be pivotal in those situations. Imagine a playoff scenario where Lillard is struggling from the field or Giannis is dealing with foul trouble. Having a player like Anthony who can come in, provide instant offense, and create shots when everything else breaks down is an invaluable asset.
Milwaukee’s commitment to building a championship-caliber team has been evident since the moment Giannis signed his long-term extension. Every move the franchise has made since then—from the acquisition of Jrue Holiday, which unlocked the 2021 championship run, to the more recent bold swing for Damian Lillard—has been designed with one goal in mind: maximize Giannis’ prime years. Adding Cole Anthony is yet another step in that direction. It sends a clear message to the fans, to the rest of the league, and to the locker room: the Bucks are not content with standing pat. They are willing to make calculated risks, adapt to the evolving game, and ensure that their roster remains one of the most formidable in the NBA.
For Anthony, this is also a golden opportunity to redefine his career trajectory. While he showed promise in Orlando, he now has the chance to contribute to a contender, learn from championship-caliber veterans, and develop under a system that emphasizes winning above all else. His scoring instincts and competitive nature make him a natural fit for the Bucks’ culture. If he embraces his role, there is no reason he cannot become one of the most impactful sixth men in the league—a spark plug who changes the momentum of games with his energy and shot-making.
Financially, the move is also a testament to the Bucks’ front office expertise in managing the salary cap while still acquiring talent. With multiple max contracts on the books, finding affordable yet impactful players is no easy task. Anthony’s contract, still within the range of a young player’s deal, provides value without compromising the team’s financial flexibility. This allows the Bucks to remain aggressive in pursuing future roster upgrades while keeping their core intact.
Looking ahead, the addition of Anthony could also have ripple effects on how other players are utilized. For example, it could allow the Bucks to stagger the minutes of Lillard and Giannis more effectively, ensuring that there is always a dynamic ball handler on the floor. It could also reduce the workload on Khris Middleton, who has battled injuries in recent seasons, by giving him more off-ball opportunities while Anthony runs the second unit offense. This type of roster balance is crucial in the modern NBA, where depth and health often determine postseason success.
As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on how Anthony integrates into the Bucks’ system. Early indications suggest that his versatility and competitive spirit will make the transition smooth. He has the skill set to thrive in both fast-paced transition offense and half-court sets, making him an ideal complement to the team’s style of play. The Bucks, who have sometimes struggled to find reliable production from their bench in the playoffs, now have a guard who can tilt the game in their favor during those critical stretches when the stars rest.
