NBA Update: Cole Anthony’s Departure from the Grizzlies
In a significant move within the NBA, guard Cole Anthony is set to part ways with the Memphis Grizzlies after reaching an agreement on a contract buyout. Following the completion of the buyout process, which was finalized on Saturday in coordination with his agents, Jeff Schwartz and Javon Phillips from Excel Sports, Anthony aims to join the Milwaukee Bucks on a one-year deal, as reported by ESPN on Saturday night.
Cole Anthony’s Career Overview
Cole Anthony, who will be entering his sixth season in the league at the age of 25, was part of a high-profile trade that saw him, along with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and multiple unprotected first-round draft picks, move from the Orlando Magic to the Grizzlies in exchange for Desmond Bane.
Over his five years with the Magic, Anthony established himself as a notable scorer, reflecting an average of 12.5 points, 4.3 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game. Selected as the 15th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, he has consistently demonstrated his value off the bench, ranking among the top five players in both total points and assists for bench players across the last three seasons, according to ESPN Research.
Strategic Implications for the Grizzlies
This buyout also serves a strategic purpose for Memphis, as the franchise aims to create sufficient salary cap space to negotiate a lucrative five-year, $240 million extension for standout player Jaren Jackson Jr. The ongoing collaboration between the Grizzlies and Anthony’s management underscores the organization’s commitment to aligning its roster and financial strategy moving forward.
