The Milwaukee Bucks have waived forward Tyler Smith, their 2024 second-round pick, ahead of Monday’s roster cutdown deadline, according to Shams Charania.
Smith’s release finalizes Milwaukee’s regular season roster, with Amir Coffey and Andre Jackson Jr. earning the final two spots.
The move comes after the organization explored potential trade options for Smith over the weekend, as first reported by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
The 20-year-old forward was selected 33rd overall in the 2024 NBA Draft and signed with the Bucks on July 5, 2024. During his rookie campaign, he split time between Milwaukee and its G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd.
Across 23 NBA appearances, Smith averaged 2.9 points and 1.1 rebounds in just over five minutes per game while shooting efficiently from the field (48%) and beyond the arc (43.3%).
In the G League, he showed flashes of long-term potential, contributing 9.4 points and 6.3 rebounds over 15 games.
Milwaukee ultimately chose to keep Andre Jackson Jr., who impressed throughout training camp. The 23-year-old guard provided valuable defensive versatility and reliability as a spot starter last season, appearing in 67 games while averaging 3.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists on 39.5% shooting from deep.
The Bucks’ decision reflects a clear emphasis on experienced depth heading into the 2025–26 season. Head coach Doc Rivers’ rotation features established names such as Giannis Antetokounmpo, Myles Turner, Kyle Kuzma, and Gary Trent Jr., alongside emerging contributors like Cole Anthony and A.J. Green.
For Smith, the waiver opens the door for potential opportunities elsewhere. His combination of shooting touch and size at 6-foot-10 could draw interest from rebuilding teams or G League affiliates looking to add stretch forwards to their system.
With this move, Milwaukee’s 15-man roster is now set as the team prepares for its season opener later this week.
