The Milwaukee Bucks have waived Kevin Porter Jr. as the franchise finalizes its roster for the 2026-27 NBA season. The decision comes after a productive 2025-26 campaign in which the guard ranked first on the team in assists and second in scoring despite missing time because of injuries.
Milwaukee made the move on Monday, October 19, ahead of the NBA’s roster deadline. The Bucks are preparing for their season opener against the Washington Wizards on Wednesday as they begin a new chapter following the departure of Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Porter’s release is one of the notable developments in Milwaukee’s offseason roster changes, particularly given his production when healthy.
Kevin Porter Jr. Stats: A Productive 2025-26 Season
Kevin Porter Jr. delivered strong numbers for the Bucks during the 2025-26 NBA season. Although injuries restricted him to 38 games, he remained one of the team’s most productive offensive players.
His season averages highlighted his ability to contribute in several areas, including scoring, playmaking, rebounding and defense.
Kevin Porter Jr. 2025-26 season stats:
- Points per game: 17.4
- Assists per game: 7.4
- Rebounds per game: 5.2
- Steals per game: 2.2
- Games played: 38
Porter led Milwaukee in assists per game and finished second in scoring, making his departure a significant decision for the team’s backcourt rotation.
However, his limited availability and Milwaukee’s crowded guard group appear to have influenced the franchise’s final roster decisions.
Why Did the Bucks Waive Kevin Porter Jr.?
The Bucks’ decision to waive Kevin Porter Jr. appears to be connected primarily to roster competition and the team’s plans for its younger players.
Milwaukee entered the 2026-27 season with several guards competing for minutes. Ryan Rollins, Tyler Herro, rookie Brayden Burries and Kasparas Jakučionis are among the players expected to feature in the team’s backcourt plans.
With limited opportunities available, the Bucks had to decide which players would receive priority as the organization reshapes its roster.
Porter, 26, was entering the final year of a two-year contract. Despite his statistical production, Milwaukee ultimately elected to move on before the regular season began.
The move could provide additional opportunities for Burries, the 10th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, and Jakučionis, a young guard the franchise is looking to develop.
Bucks Begin a New Era Without Giannis Antetokounmpo
Milwaukee’s decision to waive Porter comes during a major transition for the franchise.
The Bucks traded two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat during the offseason, ending an important chapter in the team’s recent history.
The organization is now working to establish a new identity with a different roster and a renewed focus on building for the future.
Tyler Herro and Kasparas Jakučionis arrived in Milwaukee as part of the Antetokounmpo trade, while Brayden Burries represents a young talent selected through the draft. Ryan Rollins is also expected to have an important role in the backcourt.
These roster changes suggest that Milwaukee is evaluating its long-term options while balancing the need to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference.
Although Porter had established himself as a productive contributor, the Bucks appear to have decided that allocating minutes to other guards better fits their current plans.
What Is Next for Kevin Porter Jr.?
Following his release from Milwaukee, Porter will look for another opportunity to continue his NBA career.
His performance during the 2025-26 season could attract interest from teams seeking an experienced guard who can score and create opportunities for teammates. His averages of 17.4 points and 7.4 assists per game demonstrate his offensive capabilities when available.
However, his injury history and the circumstances surrounding Milwaukee’s roster decision could factor into any potential move.
Porter has previously played for multiple NBA franchises, and his release could lead him toward another team looking to strengthen its backcourt depth. No subsequent destination is confirmed in the information available here.
For Porter, the priority will be finding a suitable situation where he can remain healthy, contribute consistently and earn a regular role.
Bucks Prepare for Season Opener Against Wizards
The Milwaukee Bucks are scheduled to open their 2026-27 NBA campaign against the Washington Wizards on Wednesday, October 21.
With the roster deadline approaching, the franchise has been making its final adjustments before the start of the regular season.
Waiving Porter creates a different outlook for the backcourt and could open up more playing time for Milwaukee’s younger guards. The team’s performance early in the season will offer a clearer picture of how its new rotation develops.
The Bucks face significant questions following Antetokounmpo’s departure, and their decisions regarding playing time, player development and roster construction will be closely watched.
Final Takeaway
Kevin Porter Jr.’s departure marks another change for a Milwaukee Bucks team entering a new era. Despite averaging 17.4 points, 7.4 assists and 5.2 rebounds in 38 games last season, Porter was waived as Milwaukee reshaped its roster ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
The decision appears to reflect the team’s crowded backcourt and its plans to develop younger players such as Brayden Burries and Kasparas Jakučionis.
Porter’s next destination remains uncertain, but his previous production could give him an opportunity to find another NBA team. Meanwhile, Milwaukee will begin its season against Washington while continuing to build its post-Antetokounmpo roster.
Leave a Reply