The Milwaukee Bucks managed to achieve their key objective at the trade deadline, ensuring Giannis Antetokounmpo remains in the green jersey with the deer logo. It’s believed the organization feels confident they can keep him in Milwaukee during the offseason by committing to build a championship-caliber team and pursue another title run.
Unfortunately for the Bucks, the NBA prioritizes parity similar to the NFL. The league aims to create a product where teams from both small and large markets can compete on a level playing field. It also thrives on the nonstop, year-round news cycle that keeps fans engaged every day, just like the NFL.
Adam Silver and his advisors would “seriously consider” abolishing the rookie draft and turning rookies in free agents if it is the only way to stop tanking, per @joevardon
(https://t.co/4heoXdM0NL) pic.twitter.com/qXNP8KfXXp
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) February 15, 2026
The challenge the NBA faces, according to Adam Silver, is a lack of competitiveness during the regular season. NBC News reported that Silver openly questioned whether the moral code of professional sports was being compromised.
Per The Athletic’s Joe Vardon, Silver and his advisors have said they would “seriously consider” eliminating the rookie draft and allowing rookies to enter as free agents if that proved to be the only way to curb tanking.
The Bucks plans in danger with Adam Silver’s draft idea
Jan 23, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) looks on during the second quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
The Bucks added free agent Cam Thomas after he was bought out by the Brooklyn Nets. He made an instant impact, scoring 34 points in just his second game with Milwaukee.
Another key element of the Bucks’ strategy was to add a rookie who could contribute right away from this exceptional incoming class. That plan now faces uncertainty due to the unpredictable moves by Adam Silver and his team concerning the draft.
If rookies are allowed to become free agents, questions immediately arise about who gets first access. Would it turn into a complete free-for-all? In that scenario, big-market teams would have an instant advantage.
Feb 14, 2026; Los Angeles, CA, USA; NBA commissioner Adam Silver speaks to the media during a press conference before 2026 NBA All Star Saturday Night at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Power shifts directly back to the players, leaving smaller markets at a disadvantage. Why would a top prospect pick a small-market team when larger markets can offer more money and greater exposure? And why would they join a rebuilding squad instead of a contender?
Under those circumstances, parity in the league could disappear entirely.