Veteran forward Bobby Portis reportedly plans to re-sign with the Milwaukee Bucks, agreeing to a three-year contract valued at $44 million. The deal is said to include a player option for the 2027-28 season, according to ESPN. Since joining the team in 2020, Portis, who is 30 years old, has become a favorite among fans and a vital asset. Renowned for his energy and impactful scoring off the bench, he played a significant part in the Bucks` 2021 NBA championship victory, delivering crucial minutes, especially during the Finals.
In his five seasons with the Bucks, Portis has consistently been regarded as one of the league`s premier reserves. During the 2024-25 season, he averaged 13.9 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, with shooting percentages of 46.6% from the field and 36.5% from beyond the arc. Portis served a 25-game suspension after testing positive for the prohibited substance Tramadol, returning to the lineup on April 8.
Portis began his NBA career after being selected 22nd overall by the Chicago Bulls in the 2015 NBA Draft. He also had stints with the Washington Wizards and New York Knicks before establishing a long-term presence in Milwaukee. Over his decade-long career, he has maintained averages of 12.0 points and 7.2 rebounds per contest.
Portis has frequently expressed his appreciation for the Milwaukee fan base and his unwavering commitment to helping the Bucks contend for another title. Securing his services for the foreseeable future guarantees that the franchise retains a key piece of its frontcourt depth and remains an important emotional anchor as they continue pursuing success in the Eastern Conference.
While Portis`s return is a positive step, it occurs during a crucial offseason for the Bucks that could significantly shape the franchise`s future, particularly concerning two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. Despite Antetokounmpo not publicly requesting a trade and remaining under contract, speculation across the league regarding his long-term status in Milwaukee continues.
In recent offseasons, Antetokounmpo has utilized his influence to advocate for significant roster upgrades, leading to notable trades like acquiring Jrue Holiday in 2020 and Damian Lillard in 2023. The Bucks achieved an NBA championship in 2021, but now face a more challenging roster situation. With uncertainty surrounding Lillard`s recovery from an Achilles injury and limited draft assets available, Milwaukee has few straightforward options for making another major move designed to immediately boost their championship aspirations.
Re-signing Portis contributes to maintaining continuity. However, unless the Bucks can swiftly reassemble a roster capable of true contention, pressure may intensify. Portis`s agreement secures a vital player, but the broader question persists whether this move will be enough to assure Antetokounmpo about the franchise`s direction towards a championship.
Jasper Hawthorne