Cole Anthony Buyout: Officially Joins Milwaukee Bucks - ESPN Reports

David

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Post on Jul 14, 2025

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Cole Anthony Buyout: Officially a Milwaukee Buck – ESPN's Surprise Report

The NBA offseason just got a whole lot more interesting. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski dropped a bombshell late Tuesday night, reporting that Orlando Magic guard Cole Anthony has officially been bought out and is signing with the Milwaukee Bucks. This unexpected move sends ripples through the Eastern Conference playoff race and significantly boosts Milwaukee's backcourt depth.

This isn't just any buyout; it's a significant acquisition for the Bucks, adding a young, talented player with proven scoring potential to their roster. The move comes as a surprise to many, as Anthony, despite showing flashes of brilliance, hasn't quite lived up to expectations in Orlando. However, this change of scenery could be exactly what he needs to revitalize his career.

Why the Bucks? A Perfect Fit?

The fit with Milwaukee seems surprisingly seamless. The Bucks, known for their strong defensive presence and championship pedigree, needed to bolster their offensive firepower, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Khris Middleton's health and the departure of key players in previous seasons. Anthony's scoring ability and playmaking skills offer a valuable complement to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jrue Holiday.

• Offensive Spark: Anthony brings a much-needed offensive spark off the bench. His ability to create his own shot, both driving to the basket and hitting from beyond the arc, is a welcome addition to a team that sometimes relies too heavily on Giannis.
• Youth and Potential: At just 23, Anthony still possesses significant upside. A fresh start under the tutelage of Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer could unlock his full potential.
• Playoff Experience: While not extensive, Anthony has NBA playoff experience, a valuable asset for a team with championship aspirations. This experience, however minimal, could prove crucial in high-pressure situations.

What This Means for the Bucks and the Eastern Conference

This acquisition immediately elevates the Bucks' standing in the Eastern Conference. With a deeper, more versatile roster, they are now a stronger contender for the championship. Other teams in the East, such as the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers, will undoubtedly take note of this significant power move.

The impact on the Orlando Magic is also noteworthy. This buyout signals a clear shift in their rebuilding strategy, prioritizing younger players and future draft picks. This move allows them to free up salary cap space and potentially pursue other free agents.

Cole Anthony's Career Trajectory: A New Beginning?

Anthony's career in Orlando was marked by both high points and inconsistencies. While his talent was undeniable, injuries and fluctuating roles hampered his progress. Now, with a clear path to playing time in Milwaukee, he has the opportunity to prove himself on a winning team and solidify his place in the NBA. This move could be a pivotal moment in his career, potentially launching him to a new level of success.

What's Next?

The Bucks are expected to officially announce the signing in the coming days. Fans are already buzzing with excitement about the potential of this new-look Bucks team. It will be fascinating to watch how Anthony integrates into the team's system and what impact he has on their playoff run. This is a story that will certainly unfold throughout the season, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Stay tuned for further updates!

Keywords: Cole Anthony, Milwaukee Bucks, NBA Buyout, Orlando Magic, NBA Free Agency, Eastern Conference, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jrue Holiday, NBA Playoffs, NBA News, Adrian Wojnarowski, ESPN, Basketball News, Sports News.