Pat Connaughton has exercised his $9.4 million player option for the 2025-26 campaign, according to Shams Charania of ESPN.
The move comes as no surprise, as the veteran forward was unlikely to command that figure on the open market had he tested free agency this offseason. Connaughton is now set to become an unrestricted free agent following the upcoming campaign.
The 32-year-old has been with the Bucks since 2018, averaging 6.8 points and 4.0 rebounds across 21.2 minutes per game in those seven years. However, his role diminished in the 2024-25 season, when he averaged 5.3 points and 2.7 rebounds in only 14.7 minutes per game over 41 regular-season appearances. He also shot just 32.1 percent from beyond the arc — his lowest mark from downtown since his rookie year.
Connaughton has reportedly been mentioned in trade discussions, and the Bucks may look to move his salary in a deal for a more impactful player. The 10-year pro was an integral part of Milwaukee’s 2021 championship run and delivered a career-best year the following season, though he hasn’t been able to match that level of production since.
Connaughton no longer appears to be a realistic fit for a Milwaukee team likely to prioritize youth as it retools around Giannis Antetokounmpo, especially with Damian Lillard set to miss an extended period due to a torn left Achilles.
If Milwaukee is unable to find a trade partner for the wing this summer, waiving him remains a possibility. The team could utilize the NBA’s stretch provision, which would pay out his guaranteed money while spreading the cap hit over multiple seasons.