Controversy Surrounding Gary Trent Jr.’s Contract with the Milwaukee Bucks

The Milwaukee Bucks recently extended Gary Trent Jr.’s contract, securing him for four years with a $64 million deal, keeping him on the team through the 2029-2030 season. Last season, Trent played in 65 games, starting in 21 and recorded career-low stats. He averaged 8.1 points, 1.2 assists, 1.0 rebounds, and 0.5 steals per game, with a shooting percentage of 38.7% from the field. These declining figures over the past four years have raised eyebrows across the NBA.

Trent’s annual salary of $16 million places him in the same pay bracket as players like Dennis Schroder, Quentin Grimes, and Max Strus, all of whom performed better last year. On ESPN’s ‘The Hoop Collective,’ Tim MacMahon criticized the contract, mentioning Trent’s negative win shares, box plus-minus, and VORP, labeling it a poor deal resembling a mid-level exception.

Some voices have called for the NBA to investigate the agreement. Speculations of a behind-the-scenes “handshake agreement” between Trent and the Bucks have surfaced. MacMahon urged NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to scrutinize the situation, saying, “If I was Adam Silver and I’m some of those head honchos in the league office, I’d sniff around. I’d sniff around a little bit on this one.”

If I was Adam Silver and I’m some of those head honchos in the league office, I’d sniff around. I’d sniff around a little bit on this one. – Tim MacMahon

Brian Windhorst noted the league’s ongoing investigation of Kawhi Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers, suggesting it could prompt a deeper dive into Trent’s deal. The NBA is probing concerns over potential salary cap violations linked to Leonard and Aspiration, a bankrupt company that allegedly structured a no-show endorsement deal with Leonard.

Reports indicate additional unreported deals involving Leonard, with the investigation currently pausing a trade between the Clippers and the Toronto Raptors. The scrutiny surrounding Leonard’s case has amplified focus on Trent’s contract.

The growing concern within the league about circumventing salary cap rules suggests the NBA may vigorously explore any deals drawing suspicion. The combination of Trent’s performance and contract terms makes this deal particularly contentious.