2021 NBA Free Agency: 5 sneaky good deals made by contenders thus far

Bobby Portis was a sneaky good signing for the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021 NBA Free Agency

The only player to be featured on this list that did not change teams is Bobby Portis, who returned to the Milwaukee Bucks on a two-year deal worth $9 million.

Following the team’s title run, it seemed certain that Portis would be seeking a hefty contract after opting out of his player option. He certainly earned it after playing a key role as the Bucks ended their 50-year title drought. However, according to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, Portis turned down much more lucrative offers from the Miami Heat and Dallas Mavericks to stay with the Bucks at a discount.

From Milwaukee’s point of view, they should be ecstatic about his decision. Portis quickly earned his place in the rotation with his endless hustle and energetic presence on the floor, which soon made him a fan favorite. Statistically, he was fantastic off the bench by averaging 11.4 points while shooting 52.3 percent from the floor and 47.1 percent from 3-point territory. Both of those were career bests for the six-year veteran, the latter percentage being the third-best mark across the league during the regular season.

Being able to keep Portis at such a discount is certainly something worth celebrating on top of the title the Bucks won just weeks ago. As evidenced by his efforts, Portis can be a contributor on a team competing at the highest level, which he will continue to do for Milwaukee on an incredibly team-friendly deal.