Milwaukee Bucks: Grading all moves in 2021 NBA free agency
Milwaukee Bucks: Grading free agency moves — Acquiring Grayson Allen
During the later stages of the first week of the free agency period, the Milwaukee Bucks agreed to trade Sam Merrill and two future second-round picks to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for shooting guard Grayson Allen.
Allen, a 25-year-old sharpshooter, averaged 10.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 0.9 steals on 41.8 percent field goals and 39.1 percent from 3-point land across 25.2 minutes per game with the Grizzlies last season. The former Duke star should fit well and complement Milwaukee’s core and offensive schemes with his ability to shoot the ball from the perimeter at an efficient rate as well as his capability to finish around the rim through contact.
Entering his fourth NBA season, Allen is expected to have a consistent role on the Bucks and could potentially book a spot in the starting lineup if Donte DiVincenzo’s lingering foot injury leaks into the beginning of next season. For the most part, he should slide into Bryn Forbes’ role off the bench from last season as a lethal shooter that the Bucks can maximize with back screens, dribble handoffs, and overall floor spacing.
Allen is on an expiring $4.0 million contract, but the Bucks would be in prime position to re-sign him with Bird Rights next summer if all goes well. Acquiring Grayson Allen was a sneaky good pickup by the Bucks that will certainly upgrade the shooting corps this season.