The Milwaukee Bucks have added Wisconsin native Henry Ellenson to their roster on an Exhibit 10 contract, marking a homecoming for the former first-round pick. Ellenson, drafted 18th overall by the Detroit Pistons in 2016 out of Marquette, brings his experience as a big man who has spent time with multiple NBA teams, including the Pistons, New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets, and Toronto Raptors. While he played parts of three seasons in Detroit, Ellenson often split time between the NBA and the G League, developing his game with the Pistons’ G League affiliate.
The signing gives Ellenson another chance to prove his value, though an Exhibit 10 contract is non-guaranteed and often used to secure a player’s G League rights. Milwaukee, which recently waived guard James Akinjo, also signed to an Exhibit 10 contract, continues to tweak its roster ahead of the 2024 season.
Ellenson’s skill set as a stretch big could be a valuable addition, particularly with his shooting ability, and his familiarity with Wisconsin could offer a level of comfort as he aims to carve out a role with the Bucks or their G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd.
Henry Ellenson’s signing with the Milwaukee Bucks marks his return to the NBA after a few years overseas. His last significant NBA-related success came in 2021, when he earned All-NBA G League Second Team honors with the Raptors 905, showcasing his versatility and shooting ability. That season, Ellenson averaged an impressive 21.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists over 15 games, while shooting an efficient 49.3% from the field and 42.7% from three-point range. These stats highlighted his potential as a stretch big, a valuable skill set in today’s NBA.
After his standout G League season, Ellenson took his talents overseas, playing for several international teams. His return to the Bucks on an Exhibit 10 contract represents his first NBA contract in over three years. While this deal is non-guaranteed, it provides him with an opportunity to compete for a spot either on the Bucks’ roster or with their G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd. If he can replicate the success he found in the G League, Ellenson may carve out a new role for himself in the NBA.
Milwaukee Bucks Sign Henry Ellenson
Plans for Henry Ellenson This Season
Though Henry Ellenson is unlikely to see significant NBA minutes with the Bucks this season, the possibility remains for him to carve out a niche role, given the Bucks’ lack of depth at the center position. Exhibit 10 contracts typically lead to a player being waived and re-assigned to the G League, and that’s the most probable path for Ellenson, where he would join the Wisconsin Herd.
However, there is a potential path for Ellenson to make the Bucks’ main roster. With Brook Lopez being the only true center on the team and entering his 17th NBA season, Milwaukee will likely rely on Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis to play center in certain lineups. While both are effective, neither is a traditional center. The Bucks also have two more options in Liam Robbins and Anzejs Pasecniks, but neither player is expected to take on substantial roles this season.
At 6’10” with the ability to stretch the floor, Ellenson’s skill set offers intriguing value, particularly in a system that values shooting from big men. His shooting touch and size could make him a useful depth piece if the Bucks face injuries or decide to preserve Lopez’s minutes during the season. While his immediate impact may come in the G League, Ellenson’s versatility and size make him a player to watch for a potential call-up if circumstances on the roster shift.
The Milwaukee Bucks’ Season Outlook
The Milwaukee Bucks had a disappointing 2023-24 season, especially after the high expectations set by acquiring star guard Damian Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers. With championship aspirations and many analysts naming them the favorites to win the NBA Finals, the Bucks fell short of their potential. Finishing the regular season with a 49-33 record, they ended up as the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference, which was underwhelming given the talent on their roster.
The season was further complicated by the unexpected firing of head coach Adrian Griffin despite the team’s solid 30-13 record through the first 43 games. The mid-season coaching change created additional instability and likely impacted the team’s performance down the stretch.
In the playoffs, the Bucks faced a shocking first-round exit, losing to the No. 6 seed Indiana Pacers, who made an impressive run to the conference finals. Key injuries played a significant role in their playoff struggles, particularly the absence of Giannis Antetokounmpo, who missed the entire first round.
As the Bucks head into the 2024-25 season, they have a renewed sense of urgency and a significant chip on their shoulder. With the core of Lillard, Antetokounmpo, and Bobby Portis still intact, they remain one of the top contenders in the Eastern Conference. If they can navigate injuries and find stability under their new coaching staff, they will be in a strong position to reclaim their status as serious championship contenders. The pressure is on to deliver after a frustrating previous season, making it a pivotal year for the franchise.
