It seemed unlikely that Taurean Prince would return for the Milwaukee Bucks this season, and recent developments confirm those concerns. According to The Athletic’s Eric Nehm, the Bucks have filed for a Disabled Player Exception for Prince, signaling that he is unlikely to play again before June 15. Unless something extraordinary happens, Prince’s season is effectively over.
Prince played in only eight games this season before undergoing neck surgery to repair a herniated disc. He was first listed as out indefinitely, leaving a slim chance for a comeback, but that always seemed optimistic. Now, he can focus on rehabbing and working his way back to full game shape for next season.
Prince also has a player option for next summer, which he could decide to pick up following this season-ending news. After a standout year last season, he looked ready to continue his high-level play. As one of the league’s sharpest perimeter shooters, the Bucks were eager to see him excel in their three-point-heavy system. He started the season strong, making 42.9 percent of his threes before the neck injury forced him out.
Problems keep piling on for the Bucks
Jan 6, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; The Milwaukee Bucks players form a team huddle before the start of a game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
The 31-year-old’s absence is a major setback. Even at full strength, the Milwaukee Bucks were lacking depth at small forward. Without him, that vulnerability is magnified. AJ Green and Gary Trent Jr. will have to carry the majority of minutes, and Kyle Kuzma may be asked to play out of position. Doc Rivers might also need to rely on Amir Coffey or Andre Jackson Jr. to cover the shortfall.
Even if the league approves the Disabled Player Exception (DPE), it won’t dramatically improve Milwaukee’s roster situation. The Bucks would have roughly $2 million, about half of Prince’s salary, to add a player. They might find a solid veteran pickup, but it is unlikely anyone could truly replace the production and impact Prince provided.
Oct 9, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Taurean Prince (12) reacts after scoring a basket in the 3rd quarter against the Detroit Pistons at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
The DPE allows a team to use an amount equal to either the non-taxpayer mid-level exception or half of the injured player’s salary, whichever is lower. With Prince’s cap hit at $3,303,774, well under the mid-level exception, the DPE would only provide the Bucks with $1,651,887 to work with if approved.