The NBA landscape continues its rapid reshuffling, and the Milwaukee Bucks have made a shrewd move to bolster their backcourt, officially adding Cole Anthony to their roster. The dynamic guard joins the Cream City after finalizing a contract buyout with the Memphis Grizzlies, a development that sends ripples across the league and could significantly impact Milwaukee’s championship aspirations for the upcoming 2025-26 season.
Anthony’s journey to Milwaukee has been a swift one. Originally part of a blockbuster trade that sent Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic, Anthony’s time in Memphis was destined to be fleeting. The Grizzlies, strategically looking to clear cap space to renegotiate and extend Jaren Jackson Jr.’s contract and finalize deals with other key players, quickly moved to facilitate a buyout. This mutually beneficial agreement allowed Memphis the financial flexibility they desired, while opening the door for Anthony to pursue a new opportunity where his talents could be better utilized.
For Cole Anthony, this signing with the Milwaukee Bucks represents a vital fresh start. His role with the Orlando Magic had seen a gradual decrease in playing time over the past few seasons, overshadowed by the emergence of other talented guards. A crowded guard rotation in Memphis, featuring stars like Ja Morant and promising young talents, also meant limited minutes. The Bucks, however, presented a glaring need. Following Damian Lillard’s unfortunate Achilles injury and subsequent waiving, Milwaukee found itself without a primary ball-handler and playmaker. Enter Anthony, a player who has consistently demonstrated his ability to score and distribute, particularly off the bench, over his five NBA seasons.
Anthony, the 15th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, brings a valuable skillset to the Bucks. In his time with the Magic, he averaged a respectable 12.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists. His ability to create his own shot, drive to the basket, and facilitate for teammates will be crucial for a Bucks offense looking to diversify its attack beyond Giannis Antetokounmpo. Reports suggest Anthony is even a strong candidate for the starting point guard role, a testament to the confidence the Bucks’ front office has in his capabilities to step into a significant void.
This acquisition is just one piece of a transformative offseason for the Milwaukee Bucks. The franchise has been aggressively retooling its roster, highlighted by the signing of Myles Turner, a premier rim protector and stretch big, and the difficult but necessary decision to waive Damian Lillard. These moves underscore Milwaukee’s commitment to maximizing their championship window with Antetokounmpo, building a more balanced and defensively sound squad.
Anthony’s expected one-year deal with the Bucks is a low-risk, high-reward proposition. At 25 years old, he still possesses significant upside and the potential to thrive in a system where he can have a more defined offensive role. His athleticism and ability to push the tempo could also align perfectly with Doc Rivers’ vision for a more fluid and dynamic Bucks offense. The reunion with former Magic teammate Gary Harris in the backcourt could also foster immediate chemistry and comfort.
As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on how Cole Anthony integrates into the Milwaukee Bucks’ revamped lineup. His arrival signifies not just a new chapter for the player, but a clear statement from a franchise determined to contend for the Larry O’Brien trophy. The buyout from the Grizzlies has paved the way for Anthony to make a significant impact, and Bucks fans will be eagerly anticipating his contributions on the hardwood.
