Cole Anthony Set to Join the Bucks After Grizzlies Buyout: What This Means for His Career

The Memphis Grizzlies have reached a contract buyout with point guard Cole Anthony. Once Anthony clears waivers, he’ll join the Milwaukee Bucks, as reported by sources to The Athletic. ESPN was the first to share this news.

Last season, Anthony played 67 games for the Orlando Magic, averaging 9.4 points, 3 rebounds, and 2.9 assists in just over 18 minutes per game. He was traded to the Grizzlies about a month ago in a deal involving Desmond Bane. The Grizzlies decided they didn’t need Anthony on their roster, allowing him to seek a new opportunity.

The Bucks have a gap to fill after losing Damian Lillard to an Achilles injury last season. Although they re-signed young point guards Kevin Porter Jr. and Ryan Rollins, both still have something to prove. Anthony, at only 25, has already played 320 games in the league. Initially starting for the Magic, he evolved into a dependable scoring option off the bench under coach Jamahl Mosley.

Standing at 6-foot-2, Anthony is known as a solid rebounder for his size, although he has struggled defensively at times. As the Magic’s defense improved, he worked hard to keep up. Despite shooting just 34.5% from three-point range over his career, he has made a difference in games with his scoring ability.

If the Bucks manage to finalize Anthony’s signing, they will fill 14 of their 15 roster spots for the upcoming 2025-26 season. They could release Andre Jackson Jr. to create another opening if needed.

In the context of NBA careers, players like Anthony often face ups and downs. Former NBA player J.R. Smith once noted, “Every year is a new challenge.” Many young athletes learn quickly that adaptability is key to success in the league.

With recent trends showing a rise in the number of players transitioning between teams, Anthony’s journey is part of a larger pattern in the NBA. According to a 2022 survey by the Sports Business Journal, over 60% of GM’s reported increased player movement, making adaptability essential.

For more on player trades and market trends in the NBA, check out the Basketball Reference website.

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Milwaukee Bucks, Memphis Grizzlies, NBA