Why rank a player on a training camp deal, you ask? Well, Amir Coffey is in an interesting position on this Bucks roster, as he’s flat-out better than every small forward not named Kyle Kuzma. Coffey, a six-year NBA vet, has proved himself over time as a useful bench piece who can also scale up and be productive in a bigger role when needed. Sicko Bucks fans may remember when he dropped 32 points, seven assists, and four steals in Milwaukee back in April of 2022. This guy should have a spot on the 15-man squad, but making that happen just got a lot harder, which we’ll discuss soon. First, let’s talk about what Coffey does on the court.
Generally, role-playing forwards in today’s league, especially those on playoff teams, are expected to have dribble-pass-shoot skillsets. Coffey can do all of those things. He’s a career 38.4% shooter from beyond the arc who can heat up in a jiffy and fill up the scoring column. In 67 career starts, the Minnesota product has averaged an efficient 12.4 points. Where Coffey separates himself from Taurean Prince (his main competition for minutes at the three) is with the dribble/pass part. He’s an effective slasher and scorer off the bounce in the mid-range— he’s shot 46.3% between 10-16 feet for his career. He’s not a true playmaker, but he’s a trustworthy decision maker who keeps turnovers at an absolute minimum while creating some plays for others off drives. Coffey can also defend respectably, especially in a switchknife or chaser role. He’s not a true wing stopper, but he pulls his weight. Overall, Coffey is a multidimensional contributor on the wing who would fit into a variety of lineups for Milwaukee.
If Coffey cracked the final roster for the Bucks, he could play a key role in the rotation on the wing. However, as mentioned, the chances of him making the team are currently looking grim. The signing of Thanasis Antetokounmpo threw a bit of a wrench into things. Originally, waiving Andre Jackson Jr. from his partially guaranteed deal would have opened up a spot for Coffey, but now Thanasis will likely take that place. To retain Coffey for the 2025–26 season, the Bucks would have to part ways with another player, potentially Chris Livingtson or Tyler Smith. Given how handy it would be to have him around, putting someone else on the chopping block could be worth it, but it’s a tough choice. Giving up on Tyler Smith, for example, would be really disappointing.
What do you think? Would you waive someone to keep Coffey, and if so, who? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to vote on the next spot in the rankings!
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