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5 under-the-radar signings that could greatly impact the NBA title race

By Rowan Kent

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - MARCH 31: Russell Westbrook #0 of the LA Clippers reacts during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on March 31, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - MARCH 31: Russell Westbrook #0 of the LA Clippers reacts during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on March 31, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images) /
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Malik Beasley, Milwaukee Bucks – Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Malik Beasley, Milwaukee Bucks – Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

#2: Malik Beasley, Milwaukee Bucks

Had it not been for an unfortunate injury to Giannis Antetokounmpo in the first round of the playoffs, the miracle Miami Heat story may have never happened. The Bucks were the first seed in the eastern conference and were able to keep their core together this offseason.

After a strong challenge from the Houston Rockets to sign him, the Bucks retained Brook Lopez on a short deal. They also kept Khris Middleton on a team-friendly star deal that should age as well as he does. It was an outside free agent, however, that could move the needle most, as the team snagged Malik Beasley on a minimum deal.

Beasley is a shooter and little more at this stage of his career, but given how important that skill is to a functioning NBA offense, he fits an important role with the Bucks. Of the Bucks that played more than half of the team’s games last year, Beasley would’ve ranked 7th on the team, but that’s including Jevon Carter who headed to Chicago.

Thus, while it might be flying under-the-radar right now, Milwaukee’s signing of Beasley could be the move that unlocks their bench lineup and some funky combinations with Antetokounmpo at center in a spaced-out lineup, one that could flip next year’s playoffs on their head and help the Bucks win another title.