Milwaukee Bucks’ shooting guard Pat Connaughton has exercised his player option for the 2025–26 NBA season, securing a $9.4M deal and extending his stay with the team.
Pat Connaughton Opts into Final Year with Milwaukee Bucks
Veteran guard Pat Connaughton has officially opted into his $9.4 million player option for the 2025–26 NBA season, securing his sixth consecutive year with the Milwaukee Bucks, according to multiple reports from international media outlets on Saturday.
Key Highlights of Connaughton’s Contract Decision
- Contract Value: $9.4 million
- Contract Type: Player Option
- Team: Milwaukee Bucks
- Season: 2025–26
- Signed Extension: 3-year, $28.5 million deal in 2022
- Deadline to Opt-In: Tuesday, June 25, 2025
By opting in, Connaughton solidifies his role in Milwaukee’s roster for one more season, despite a performance dip in the previous year.
2024–25 Season Review: A Tough Year for Connaughton
During the 2024–25 NBA season, Connaughton faced challenges in both form and minutes on the court. Here’s how his stats looked:
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 5.3 |
| Rebounds per Game | 2.7 |
| Assists per Game | 1.7 |
| Games Played | 41 |
| Starts | 1 |
| Minutes per Game | 14.7 (Career Low) |
| 3PT Shooting % | 32.1% (Lowest Since Rookie Year) |
His reduced court time and shooting struggles raised questions about his future, but Milwaukee clearly values his experience and locker room presence.
Connaughton’s Career Overview
Originally drafted by the Brooklyn Nets with the 41st overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, Connaughton was traded on draft night to the Portland Trail Blazers, where he began his professional journey.
📌 Early Career with Portland Trail Blazers
- Seasons: 3 (2015–2018)
- Games Played: 155
- Averages: 3.7 points, 1.6 rebounds per game
🦌 Milwaukee Bucks Era
Connaughton joined the Bucks as a free agent in August 2018 and soon became an important rotational piece, especially during Milwaukee’s 2020–21 NBA Championship run.
🏀 Career Totals (as of 2025)
- NBA Games Played: 595
- Games Started: 72
- Career Averages:
- 6.0 points
- 3.4 rebounds
- 1.4 assists
Impact on Milwaukee Bucks’ Salary Cap
With Connaughton opting in, the Milwaukee Bucks’ payroll for the 2025–26 season climbs to approximately $171 million. This figure is subject to change pending the player option decision from Bobby Portis, who holds a $13.44 million option of his own.
What This Means for the Bucks
Pat Connaughton may not have delivered peak performance last season, but his experience, work ethic, and ability to fit seamlessly into different rotations make him a valuable role player for a team looking to stay in title contention. His decision to stay ensures continuity and depth on the wing.
Conclusion
Pat Connaughton’s decision to exercise his $9.4M player option reaffirms his commitment to the Milwaukee Bucks as they continue shaping their roster for the 2025–26 NBA season. While his minutes and shooting declined in the past year, his veteran presence and championship experience remain assets for the team.
As Milwaukee eyes another playoff run, Connaughton’s return provides the Bucks with much-needed stability in a season of high expectations.
FAQs
1. How much is Pat Connaughton’s player option worth for 2025–26?
It is valued at $9.4 million.
2. What team does Pat Connaughton play for?
He plays for the Milwaukee Bucks.
3. When did Connaughton sign his last contract extension?
He signed a 3-year, $28.5 million extension in 2022.
4. What were Connaughton’s stats in the 2024–25 season?
He averaged 5.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 41 games.
5. How will this affect the Bucks’ salary cap?
With Connaughton’s option exercised, the team’s committed payroll reaches approx. $171 million, pending other player decisions.