Milwaukee Bucks GM Jon Horst 2025 Offseason Might Be Smarter Than People Think
Milwaukee Bucks GM Jon Horst has had better offseasons when it comes to public opinion. Following a series of bold decisions this summer—none more shocking than waiving and stretching Damian Lillard’s salary—Horst has found himself ranked as one of the worst GMs in the league by some analysts. Critics argue that his moves risk the Bucks’ ability to maximize Giannis Antetokounmpo’s prime and contend in an increasingly competitive NBA.
But is the criticism fair? While public perception skews negative, a closer look at the Bucks’ offseason reveals a potentially shrewd strategy, particularly under the constraints of the NBA’s new collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Jon Horst may, in fact, be ahead of the curve in adapting to this new economic reality while ensuring Milwaukee remains a contender for years to come.
Milwaukee Bucks: What Went Wrong with Damian Lillard?
Waiving and stretching Damian Lillard’s massive contract was the most polarizing move of Horst’s offseason. On paper, Lillard’s partnership with Giannis Antetokounmpo seemed like a recipe for contention. However, reality painted a different picture. Injuries had started to pile up for Lillard, and his defensive limitations meant the Bucks had to patch significant holes on the other end of the floor.
Rather than push forward with a bloated financial commitment, Horst opted for an unorthodox move. By stretching Lillard’s remaining salary, the Milwaukee Bucks effectively spread his cap hit over several years, freeing up room to target other roster upgrades. Critics labeled this as an act of desperation, suggesting it signaled a lack of confidence in the franchise’s direction.
However, in an era where financial flexibility is king—especially under the restraints of the updated CBA—this decision might be less about failure and more about recalibration.
Jon Horst: Navigating the New CBA Landscape
The NBA’s new CBA introduces severe penalties for teams that exceed the second luxury tax apron, imposing restrictions on trades, free agency, and even draft picks. For small-market teams like Milwaukee, operating in this environment is an even greater challenge. The Bucks couldn’t afford to ignore these financial realities, especially while trying to sustain a championship-caliber team around Giannis Antetokounmpo.
By waiving and stretching Lillard’s contract, Horst created much-needed financial breathing room to reshape the roster. It’s a move that prioritizes depth and balance over a singular superstar partnership, acknowledging that winning in today’s NBA often requires more than just two stars surrounded by minimum-contract players.
Looking at the Roster Additions
This newfound flexibility allowed Milwaukee to make meaningful additions. Myles Turner was the Bucks’ marquee signing, bringing elite shot-blocking and floor-spacing abilities to the frontcourt. Turner’s arrival softens the blow of losing Brook Lopez, providing a defensive anchor who complements Giannis’ versatility.
Beyond Turner, the Bucks made a series of value acquisitions. Young guard Cole Anthony adds backcourt depth and scoring punch, while veterans like Gary Harris and Taurean Prince provide shooting and experience. Meanwhile, players like Bobby Portis and Gary Trent Jr. were retained, ensuring the team retained critical locker-room leadership and reliable offensive options.
Critics may overlook just how well-rounded this reshaped roster is. By building a team that emphasizes balance and versatility, Horst mitigates the risks of being locked into one rigid strategy—something that proved costly in recent playoff exits.
A Forward-Thinking Approach
What separates Horst’s offseason from traditional decision-making is the forward-thinking nature of his moves. Most teams in a similar position would likely double down on star power, mortgaging depth in a desperate bid to recapture past glories. Instead, Horst is betting on sustainability in a league where penalties for excess are now higher than ever.
By addressing the Bucks’ depth concerns and maintaining flexibility under the cap, Horst is positioning Milwaukee to remain competitive in both the short and long term. And while waiving Lillard may not have been a popular choice, it reflects a willingness to make tough decisions rather than sticking with the status quo.
For the Bucks, this isn’t just about chasing another championship in 2025. It’s about ensuring they remain a destination where Giannis Antetokounmpo feels he can win throughout the back half of his prime.
Why the Criticism Is Shortsighted
It’s easy to criticize bold moves in the moment—particularly when they defy conventional wisdom. Stretching Lillard’s salary and saying goodbye to Brook Lopez weren’t moves designed to please fans or analysts; they were pragmatic decisions dictated by the Bucks’ financial and competitive realities.
The irony is that many of the same critics who deride Horst for taking risks would likely lampoon him for failing to adapt if the Bucks had stuck with an aging core and fallen short again. This is the paradox of NBA front offices in the spotlight—radical moves are often criticized without consideration for why they were necessary.
Final Thoughts
Jon Horst’s offseason shouldn’t be solely judged by the controversy surrounding the Damian Lillard move. When viewed through the lens of the new CBA and Milwaukee’s broader strategic goals, his approach starts to look less like a gambit and more like a calculated adaptation.
It’s too early to say whether this revamped Bucks roster will deliver immediate success, but Horst’s willingness to think outside the box is noteworthy in an era that increasingly rewards flexibility and creativity. For now, the jury is still out—but perhaps we’ll look back at this offseason as the one where Jon Horst proved himself not behind the game but steps ahead of it.
