Bucks News: Insider Reveals How ‘Spark Plug’ Signing Can Help Replace Damian Lillard

The Milwaukee Bucks waived point guard Damian Lillard, stretching the remaining $112.6 million on his contract to be paid over five seasons ($22.5 million annually). To help replace his production, Bucks General Manager Jon Horst signed free agent guard Cole Anthony.

Anthony, the son of former Bucks guard Greg Anthony, previously played for the Orlando Magic. During an interview on the Bucks podcast "Hear District," former Bucks All-Star Marques Johnson and Yahoo Sports' Kevin O'Connor discussed Anthony's potential contribution. Johnson highlighted Anthony's confidence and "swagger," while acknowledging his inconsistency on the court, noting he can be a high-scoring "spark plug" one game but inefficient the next.

Statistically, Anthony averaged 9.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.9 assists in just 18.4 minutes per game last season for the Magic, a decrease from his peak output of 16.3 points in the 2021-22 season. O'Connor analyzed that while Anthony shouldn't be a key figure due to limitations in scoring efficiency and defense as a smaller guard, his signing provides the Bucks with a potential backcourt spark plug in situations where they need one, especially after losing Lillard.