Free-agent big man Bobby Portis has come to terms to remain with the Milwaukee Bucks on a four-year, $49 million contract, sources told The Athletic on Thursday. The deal includes a player option in Year 4.
Portis, 27, declined his $4.55 million player option after averaging career highs of 14.6 points and 9.1 rebounds in 72 games last season. Portis became a starter when starter Brook Lopez missed time due to injury.
Portis became a fan favorite during the Bucks’ 2021 championship run, his first season with the franchise after stints with the Bulls, Wizards, and Knicks.
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(Photo: Kamil Krzaczynski / USA Today)
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One-on-one with the Bucks' Bobby Portis: 'They just let Bobby be Bobby'
What does re-signing with the Bucks mean for Portis?
Eric Nehm, Bucks beat writer: Milwaukee has turned into Portis’ basketball home. With a championship ring and cult hero status through a strong performance during the team’s journey to the organization’s first title in 50 seasons, Portis is one of the most beloved players in the state. Behind two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, he might be the most beloved player on the roster.
And playing on a championship roster for Mike Budenholzer has allowed Portis to silence many of his critics. Before joining the Bucks, many questioned Portis’ ability to contribute to winning instead of just putting up good stats, as well as his effort on the defensive end. In just two seasons with the Bucks, Portis has been able to largely silence those doubters and prove he belongs on the floor in big moments.
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What will Portis' role look like in 2022-23?
Nehm: Next season, Portis will slot into the same role he has played for the last two seasons in Milwaukee as one of three players in Budenholzer’s big man rotation. He will likely come off the bench behind Brook Lopez, but often get the chance to slot into the starting lineup when other players miss games.