3. Brook Lopez: 1 year, $3.4 million (Milwaukee Bucks)
Giannis Antetokounmpo has a solid veteran big in the frontcourt to lighten the load on defense in big man Brook Lopez — at least for a year, anyway. Lopez finds himself on a new squad after playing a season with the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Milwaukee Bucks will be Lopez’s third stop as he approaches his 31st birthday. The 10-year veteran produced 13.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.3 blocks per game in 2017-18 with Los Angeles. On a team like the Bucks, Lopez’ production is sure to go up given what he brings to the team.
His X-factor ability is from behind the arc. He shot 34.3 percent from 3-point range in 2017-18, which makes him a solid addition at a bargain price of $3.4 million. If things work out, there’s an opportunity to sign him to a short-term deal. The move certainly elevates the Bucks’ standing in the East, especially in the frontcourt.