Bucks' $43.6 Million Forward Chose Milwaukee Over Plenty of Other Options, Says GM

The Milwaukee Bucks, facing limited salary cap space, have pursued creative roster improvements around Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason. A key move was re-signing Bobby Portis, a crucial bench contributor and fan favorite over recent years.

Portis signed a contract worth nearly $44 million to return. Bucks general manager Jon Horst stated that Portis had numerous offers from other teams but actively chose to come back to Milwaukee. Horst emphasized Portis's desire to win with the current group, his enjoyment of playing with Giannis, and his approval of the team's free agency moves.

The Bucks highly value Portis's energy and versatility, particularly his ability to excel off the bench while being capable of starting if needed. With Myles Turner now the starting center, Portis is expected to primarily remain in his bench role, a position where he thrives.

Despite securing Portis, the Bucks recognize a need for backcourt reinforcements to be considered serious title contenders next season, even acknowledging potential weaknesses among Eastern Conference rivals due to injuries. Re-signing Portis, who averaged 13.9 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game last season, was a top offseason priority for Horst due to the energy he provides in significant games.