Milwaukee Bucks guard AJ Green has agreed to a four-year contract extension worth $45 million, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. Green, who joined the Bucks in 2022 after going undrafted from Northern Iowa, had a commendable season last year, averaging 7.4 points over 73 games, mostly as a bench player.
Previously, Green was slated to play the 2025-26 season on an expiring contract valued at $2.3 million, according to Spotrac. With his significant shooting performance—posting an impressive 42.7% shooting rate from beyond the arc last season—he ranked just behind stars Zach LaVine and Kevin Durant for accuracy among players attempting at least five three-pointers per game. This success suggests he may secure a more stable role in the Bucks’ rotation during his upcoming fourth NBA season.
The Bucks face challenges managing their salary cap in the coming years, particularly after waiving Damian Lillard, which involved $22.5 million in dead money. Green’s extension, with an average annual value of $11.25 million, will constitute less than seven percent of the projected $166 million salary cap in the 2026-27 season. This relatively affordable contract could prove beneficial for the Bucks as they navigate financial pressures, especially with superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo holding a player option for the 2027-28 season.
The 2026-27 season is crucial for the Bucks as it represents the last guaranteed year for Antetokounmpo’s current contract, where his projected salary of $58.5 million could take up over 35 percent of the cap. Additionally, the Bucks have other players like Myles Turner, Kyle Kuzma, Bobby Portis, and Ryan Rollins under contract through next season.
Decisions surrounding player options for the 2026-27 season will influence the team’s financial strategy, particularly given the potential for repeater tax implications. As reported earlier, the Bucks’ competitive performance this season may heavily impact Antetokounmpo’s future with the franchise.
By securing Green at an advantageous rate, the Bucks are positioning themselves to maintain a competitive roster amid significant financial considerations, fostering hope for continued success in the years ahead.