9-Time All-NBA Linked to the Bucks as Damian Lillard's Replacement: Report
The Milwaukee Bucks might not be done with the NBA free agency. After the surprising move to release All-Star guard Damian Lillard, the Bucks are looking to strengthen their backcourt depth for the 2025-26 season. So far, they've resigned Kevin Porter Jr. and Ryan Rollins as the guards.
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Amid their search to toughen their roster, a new star player emerged as a potential candidate. According to NBA insider Brett Siegel, the Bucks are a team to watch to pursue the nine-time All-NBA guard, Russell Westbrook.
The former league MVP remains unsigned after his one-year stint with the Denver Nuggets. Although he isn't the same player as he once was, Westbrook could give Milwaukee's backcourt a boost.
Milwaukee Bucks guard Kevin Porter Jr. and Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo celebrate as the clock winds down.Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
Siegel reported on Tuesday that the Bucks are expected to use their final roster spot to acquire a guard.
'In recent days, another team has suddenly emerged as a possible suitor for Westbrook: the Milwaukee Bucks. The expectation surrounding the Bucks is that they will be utilizing one of their final roster spots to add extra guard depth after bringing back Kevin Porter Jr. and Ryan Rollins in free agency,' Siegel wrote.
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'Given Westbrook's athleticism and speed, he would be an ideal fit next to Giannis Antetokounmpo on a Bucks team that likes to push the pace in transition.'
Last season, Westbrook appeared in 75 games for the Nuggets, averaging 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists. His speed and athleticism gave the team much-needed energy whenever he came off the bench.
The Bucks could use his contributions, which vary from scoring, rebounding and facilitating. The downside, however, is his unreliable outside stroke. But he's still productive, even in the playoffs. He put up 11.7 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.6 assists on 39.1% shooting from the field in 13 games.
Related: Bucks Officially Announce Move for $107 Million Star on Monday
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 9, 2025, where it first appeared.
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