The Milwaukee Bucks opened their post-Giannis Antetokounmpo era with a 128-127 preseason victory over the Indiana Pacers on October 16. That narrow win highlighted a young team finding its footing after a franchise-altering offseason. The Bucks traded their two-time MVP to Miami, launching a full-scale rebuild under new head coach Taylor Jenkins. Their preseason record now sits at 2-3, with recent results including a 125-104 loss to Chicago and a 105-90 defeat to Charlotte.
Giannis Antetokounmpo's departure was the defining moment. Milwaukee sent its franchise cornerstone and Bobby Portis to the Heat. In return, they acquired a significant package headlined by Tyler Herro and Jaime Jaquez Jr., plus prospects Kasparas Jakucionis and Kel'el Ware. The deal also included three first-round picks and a pick swap. Giannis played just 36 games last season but still averaged 27.6 points, nearly 10 rebounds, and 5.4 assists. Replacing that production is a multi-year project.
Tyler Herro, a Wisconsin native, is the immediate focal point. He averaged over 20 points per game for the fifth straight year in 2025-26, shooting a career-best 48% from the field. Two seasons ago, he was an All-Star. Herro will likely start alongside Ryan Rollins, forming a backcourt with scoring punch. Rookie Brayden Burries, the 10th overall pick, also showed promise during Summer League.
Kel'el Ware adds a modern big man skillset. In 34 starts for Miami last year, he averaged a double-double of 12.8 points and 10.7 rebounds while hitting 40.9% of his threes. His rim protection will be vital for a young defense.
Their early schedule is tough. But coach Taylor Jenkins has a track record of accelerating rebuilds. He won 44 games in his final season with the Memphis Grizzlies and made multiple playoff appearances there.
Jenkins' system emphasizes player development and pace. He now has a canvas of young talent to mold. The preseason has been a mixed bag, featuring that close win over Indiana and a 128-126 victory against Oklahoma City, but also some lopsided losses. The goal this year is growth, not contention. Jenkins must establish a new culture and defensive identity without the safety net of a superstar.
The best outcome is clear progress from the young core. If Herro re-establishes his All-Star form and Burries looks like a future star, the season is a success. Ware developing into a reliable two-way center would be another win. Team chemistry and competitive spirit matter more than the final win total.
Milwaukee could surprise some teams if their new backcourt catches fire. They have one more preseason test, an away game against the Washington Wizards on October 21, before the real games begin. Surviving their brutal early stretch and staying relatively healthy would allow Jenkins to implement his system fully. This season is about laying a foundation. Check the team's progress and full schedule on our schedule page throughout the year.
The departure of a legend always hurts. But the Bucks have accumulated assets and interesting young players. This year will be unpredictable, but it might just be fun.
