Pat Connaughton exercises his $9.4 million option with the Bucks

Pat Connaughton won’t be leaving Milwaukee anytime soon. According to Shams Charania of ESPN, the Bucks guard has exercised his $9.4 million player option for the 2025-2026 season, avoiding unrestricted free agency until summer 2026.

A veteran champion staying despite reduced role

This decision comes after a challenging season for the 32-year-old, who posted his lowest statistics in several years. Connaughton averaged 5.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in just 41 games during the 2024-2025 season. He hadn’t played so few minutes (14.7 per game) since the 2016-2017 season.

Despite this decline, Connaughton remains one of the last remnants of the 2021 championship team. Arriving in Milwaukee in 2018 as a free agent after three seasons in Portland, he had become a key rotation player for the Bucks in subsequent years. The Oregon native, selected in the second round of the 2015 Draft, had signed a three-year, $28 million contract with Milwaukee in 2023.

Bucks’ uncertain future with Giannis Antetokounmpo

Connaughton’s decision comes amid uncertainty for the Wisconsin franchise. After a regular season with 48 wins and 34 losses, the Bucks were eliminated in the first round of playoffs by the Indiana Pacers, raising questions about the team’s future.

The Bucks might face a transition period this summer, especially if management decides to part ways with superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. While the team might choose to strengthen around the « Greek Freak », a trade for young assets and a complete rebuild could be considered for a more sustainable future. Whatever happens with Antetokounmpo, Connaughton will be present to support the Bucks next season, bringing his experience and system knowledge to a team seeking renewal.