THE NBA Draft is just around the corner, in what shapes as one of the most anticipated selection nights in recent memory, thanks to a talented crop of up and comers set to have their dreams realised.

With that in mind, Rookie Me Central will be previewing each side ahead of draft night on June 22, unpacking all 30 team’s needs and potential selections as they look towards the future.

The Philadelphia 76ers were set to be the first team on the agenda, but they have traded away their first round selection for the 2023 draft, while forfeiting their second rounder due to violating free agency rules, so they will be looking ahead to the 2024 draft.

Next on the list are the Milwaukee Bucks, who have just the one selection themselves, but could find themselves a gem given the depth of this year’s draft class.

Milwaukee Bucks

Draft picks

58

Contracted Players

Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton (player option), Jrue Holiday, Grayson Allen, Pat Connaughton, MarJon Beauchamp, Jevon Carter, AJ Green (qualifying offer), Lindell Wigginton (two-way contract)

The Milwaukee Bucks will be looking to contend again after a disappointing bow out to finish their 2022/23 season. The Bucks boast the big three of Antetokounmpo, Middleton (who seems extremely likely to return) and Holiday, and are truly in their championship window. Their trip to the draft will be short but sweet, and they will be looking to potentially pick up a player who has slid down the draft pool.

At pick 58, it seems like the Bucks will be less prioritised on positional preference, and more focussed on getting the best player available. There are always some surprises on draft night, so they could pick up an overlooked gun, or perhaps get their hands on a long-term prospect.

With Middleton reaching the twilight of his career and not much depth in this domain, the Bucks could opt to boost their wing depth, with plenty of eligible candidates in this area. Oliver Maxence-Prosper emerged as an elite defender as a member of Marquette, and could be tempting to a Bucks team that would like a player that could contribute in the short-term, given they are one of the most expensive sides in the league.

Another option for the Bucks could be Nikola Đurišić who may receive interest further up the order, but should he slide to pick 58, it would be hard for Milwaukee to pass up his services. At six-foot-nine, Đurišić offers plenty of height at the forward position, while he offers strong playmaking and has the ability to handle the ball, which could prove a unique factor in comparison to other wings.

Alternatively, the Bucks could boost their big man stocks and bring in college star Zach Edey, who has delivered big numbers at NCAAM level. Although he lacks a bit of speed which may hurt him at NBA level, he could be a solid option for the Bucks should they look to add to their frontcourt.

Although the Bucks won’t be leaving with a lot on draft night, it may come down to quality over quantity as they look to find a bargain at the bottom of the order.