The Milwaukee Bucks defied trade rumors last week by keeping their ten-time All-Star Giannis Antetokounmpo on the roster despite his ongoing recovery from a calf injury. Instead of trading Giannis ahead of the NBA deadline, the Bucks sent Amir Coffey and Cole Anthony to the Phoenix Suns, while acquiring NBA Champion Ousmane Dieng in a deal involving the Chicago Bulls. Shortly after, Milwaukee claimed guard Cam Thomas off waivers from the Brooklyn Nets, signaling a strategic move to strengthen their lineup during this crucial phase of the season.
Both Dieng and Thomas made their first appearances for the Bucks in a game against the Orlando Magic earlier this week, though their minutes were limited. Nevertheless, the team’s general manager Jon Horst expressed strong optimism about the potential impact these young players bring to the squad, especially Cam Thomas.
GM Jon Horst Discusses the Promise of New Additions Dieng and Thomas
After struggling through a 21-30 start, the Milwaukee Bucks aim to revitalize their campaign with fresh talent added at the trade deadline. Speaking on a Bucks radio show, Horst outlined his expectations for the two newcomers. Regarding Ousmane Dieng, a 22-year-old forward and former 11th overall draft pick who won an NBA title with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Horst said,
“We love the youth and the upside that he brings to use with the size and the skill and the versatility”
Dieng, standing six-foot-nine, is currently shooting a career-best 36% from beyond the arc, showcasing the type of growth the Bucks hope to harness as they build their roster for the future.
Turning to Cam Thomas, Horst noted Thomas’s potential and his immediate value to the team:
“I think has some real future upside for our organization as well as a very impactful, playable skill set that will help us the rest of this season.”
The Bucks have long monitored Thomas’s development, and Horst’s comments suggest the franchise envisions a role for him beyond the current season. Milwaukee is poised to have salary cap flexibility this offseason, which could enable them to offer Thomas a multi-year contract if his performance meets expectations.
Cam Thomas’s Performance and Role Within the Bucks
At the time he was waived by Brooklyn, Thomas was averaging 15.6 points per game with shooting splits of 40% from the field, 33% from three-point range, and 84% from the free-throw line. His production from 2023 to 2025 was even more impressive, posting 22.9 points per game with shooting percentages of 44%, 36%, and 86%, respectively.
Should Thomas regain his scoring form in Milwaukee, he has the capability to complement Giannis Antetokounmpo effectively, potentially serving as a reliable secondary scorer and helping the Bucks remain competitive as they navigate the remainder of the season.
Additional Updates on the Milwaukee Bucks
- The Bucks are taking calculated risks with emerging talent as recent acquisitions gear up for larger roles.
- The connection between former Bucks star Khris Middleton and coach Jason Kidd remains a point of interest following Middleton’s move to the Mavericks.
- Bobby Portis received an official communication from the NBA earlier this week, marking another notable event for the team.
Milwaukee Bucks fans and Wisconsin sports followers can stay informed on further developments by following updates from local coverage.
On the trade for Ousmane Dieng and opening a roster spot to then sign Cam Thomas;
“One of the things we wanted to be able to accomplish at this deadline was to increase some flexibility in terms of roster spots.”
On Dieng: “We love the youth and the upside that he brings to use… pic.twitter.com/4dAnxj8oRN
— Bucks Breakdown (@Bucks_Breakdown) February 11, 2026
