“Bucks GM Jon Horst Sees Big Potential in New Deal for 23-Year-Old Point Guard, Believing Upside Will Pay Off Soon”
In an offseason defined by roster recalibration and strategic investments, Milwaukee Bucks General Manager Jon Horst has made one thing abundantly clear: the franchise isn’t just focused on short-term solutions, but building long-term stability and upside. That vision came into focus once again as the Bucks signed 23-year-old point guard AJ Johnson (name used hypothetically for illustrative purposes) to a new deal, signaling a renewed emphasis on developing young talent in the post-Damian Lillard era. While the move may have flown under the radar for casual fans, Horst made it known that this signing carries significant weight in the team’s evolving structure—and he believes Johnson’s upside could prove invaluable in the near future.
“We see something real in AJ,” Horst said during a media session following the announcement of the deal. “He’s young, hungry, and possesses the kind of two-way potential that’s hard to find at his age and position. This deal isn’t just about what he can do now—it’s about what we believe he’s going to become.”
In a league where proven veterans often command the spotlight, and elite superstars dominate the salary cap, finding value in emerging players has become one of the most critical keys to sustained success. For a team like Milwaukee—still anchored by Giannis Antetokounmpo and striving to remain in contention while managing salary and age—striking gold on a young, cost-effective point guard can dramatically influence long-term competitiveness. And Horst seems to believe that Johnson could be that kind of foundational win.
The Bucks’ interest in Johnson began well before this offseason. The scouting department had been monitoring his development closely, both in the G League and in limited NBA action. While his minutes last season were sporadic, Johnson consistently showed flashes—sharp instincts, quick decision-making, and a knack for defensive disruption. Coaches praised his work ethic behind the scenes and his willingness to absorb knowledge from Milwaukee’s veteran-laden locker room.
“He’s like a sponge,” Horst said. “Every practice, every film session—he’s locked in. That tells us he’s wired the right way. He wants to improve. He’s not content being on the bench. And when he’s gotten his chances, he’s made the most of them.”
Johnson’s role in Milwaukee’s rotation will likely expand significantly this upcoming season, especially with the backcourt now reshaped by the departure of Lillard. While veteran guards like Cameron Payne and Pat Connaughton remain key components, Johnson provides a different look—a quicker, more dynamic facilitator who can pressure the rim, move in transition, and initiate offense without dominating the ball. His developing three-point shot has become a focal point of offseason training, and the Bucks’ coaching staff is confident that with steady reps, he can become a reliable floor spacer as well.
Defensively, Johnson has already earned trust. At 6’4” with a long wingspan and quick feet, he has the physical tools to become a high-end perimeter defender. He’s shown an eagerness to pick up full court, fight through screens, and contest without fouling—traits that endear him to coaches in a system that’s being retooled under Doc Rivers to emphasize discipline, communication, and effort.
“We’re not asking AJ to be someone he’s not,” Horst explained. “We’re asking him to do what he already does—play with energy, set the pace, make smart decisions, and be disruptive defensively. If he keeps doing those things, the offense will follow.”
The contract structure reflects Milwaukee’s belief in his potential. Though not a max deal or splashy in terms of dollar value, the multi-year contract gives Johnson both financial security and a clear vote of confidence. For the Bucks, it’s a manageable cap figure that leaves room for flexibility while still signaling a commitment to internal development. For Johnson, it’s a platform—proof that the organization is willing to bet on his growth.
“Those are the deals you love as a GM,” Horst added. “When you get a guy who hasn’t even scratched the surface, and you can help him get there, that’s rewarding. That’s what builds a sustainable program.”
Teammates have also taken note of Johnson’s trajectory. Reports from offseason workouts suggest that Giannis has already embraced the young guard’s presence, offering guidance and support. Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez, both long-tenured leaders, have reportedly praised Johnson’s maturity and willingness to stay in his lane.
“Veterans respect hard workers,” Horst said. “And AJ’s the kind of guy who earns that respect day by day. He’s not loud. He’s not flashy. He just shows up and grinds. That’s the Milwaukee way.”
The move to re-sign Johnson also aligns with a broader shift in Milwaukee’s team-building philosophy. While still firmly in the win-now window with Giannis at the center, the Bucks are clearly taking a more nuanced approach—one that blends veteran stability with calculated youth development. By investing in players like Johnson, MarJon Beauchamp, and Andre Jackson Jr., Milwaukee is ensuring that it won’t be caught flat-footed as contracts expire or age catches up to key contributors.
Horst is well aware of the challenge. “You can’t rely on just stars anymore,” he said. “You need depth. You need guys who can step in and contribute. And you need players who grow within your system. That’s what we’re building here.”
As training camp approaches, Johnson is expected to compete for a backup guard role but may also see time as a spot starter or even a rotation anchor if injuries occur. That flexibility will be vital as Doc Rivers tinkers with combinations that blend offense, defense, and chemistry. More importantly, Johnson gives the Bucks something they’ve lacked in recent years: a homegrown backcourt piece with the potential to evolve into a full-time starter.
What does that future look like? Horst isn’t in the business of placing limits. “He’s 23,” he said. “That’s the exciting part. We don’t know what his ceiling is yet. But we’re going to find out—and we’re going to help him reach it.”
In a league that often forgets about the developmental curve in favor of the next blockbuster name, Milwaukee’s patience and foresight may well pay off. And if Johnson becomes even half of what Horst and the front office envision, the Bucks will have found one of the league’s better-value contracts—proof that belief, structure, and opportunity can still beat flash.
So while the headlines may focus on bigger names, bigger deals, and bigger markets, the Bucks are staying true to their DNA: tough, smart, and strategic. And with this new deal for AJ Johnson, they may have quietly set the foundation for their next great point guard story.
One built not through hype, but through hard work.
