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Bucks' Draft Woes Continue? Another Missed Star?
17 Oct
Summary
- Bucks drafted AJ Johnson instead of Ajay Mitchell in 2024.
- Mitchell became an NBA champion in his rookie season.
- Bucks have a history of passing on impactful draft picks.
The Milwaukee Bucks' history of questionable NBA Draft decisions appears to be continuing. In the 2024 draft, the team selected AJ Johnson despite interest from Ajay Mitchell, who had a personal connection to Wisconsin through his sister. Mitchell later shared that his agents indicated a late first-round possibility with Milwaukee, only for the Bucks to select Johnson with the 23rd pick.
Mitchell was ultimately drafted 38th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder. He demonstrated immediate impact, becoming an NBA champion in his rookie season and achieving significant statistical growth in his second year. His performance, including strong playoff showings, contrasts with the Bucks' draft strategy.
This event echoes past drafts, such as 2016 when the Bucks chose Thon Maker at No. 10, passing on a future three-time All-Star Domantas Sabonis. The team also selected MarJon Beauchamp in the 2022 draft, overlooking players like Nikola Jovic and Andrew Nembhard, who have since seen more consistent play or moves across multiple teams. Kyshawn George, selected after Johnson in 2024, also showed marked improvement in his second season.
