The Milwaukee Bucks have made their move, signing Cam Thomas to a standard contract and filling the final open spot on their 15-man roster. On the surface, it’s a solid addition for a team looking to deepen its backcourt rotation.
But beneath that headline is a ripple effect-one that directly impacts Pete Nance, a two-way standout who’s quietly earned his way into the Bucks’ regular rotation. Now, the question becomes: how do the Bucks make room for him?
Nance Has Earned His Shot
Let’s start with the obvious-Pete Nance deserves a standard NBA deal. The 6-foot-10 forward has made the most of his two-way opportunity, carving out a role with his energy, IQ, and efficiency.
Over his last five games, he’s averaging 11.2 points and 4.4 rebounds in just 20 minutes per night. He’s doing it with remarkable efficiency too, shooting 63.9% from the field and a scorching 52.6% from deep (10-of-19).
Those aren’t empty numbers-they’re the kind of stats that turn heads in front offices.
But this isn’t just about numbers. Nance brings a level of maturity and hustle that coaches love.
He’s in the right spots, he competes defensively, and he doesn’t try to do too much. He’s the kind of glue guy who helps stabilize second units, and his versatility on both ends has made him a reliable piece in Milwaukee’s rotation.
The problem? His two-way contract only allows him to be active for 50 games in a season.
He’s already played in 20 and dressed for nine others. With 30 regular-season games left, the Bucks are staring down a decision: either convert his deal or risk being without him when it matters most.
And if Milwaukee makes a playoff push, Nance can’t suit up under his current contract. That’s a big deal.
Timing Is Everything
The Bucks have until March 4 to convert two-way deals to standard contracts, so the clock is ticking. And while Nance has clearly earned a spot, the path to making that happen just got trickier with the Thomas signing. That final roster spot-the one that seemed tailor-made for Nance-is now gone.
So what’s the solution? Someone’s got to go.
The Roster Crunch
It’s never easy to cut a player, but the Bucks may have a logical option in Andre Jackson Jr. The rookie wing earned a spot out of training camp, but he hasn’t been able to lock down a consistent role in the rotation. While he’s shown flashes, the minutes just haven’t been there, and Milwaukee may decide it’s time to pivot.
From a roster-building standpoint, waiving Jackson makes sense. His contract includes a team option for next season, so the Bucks wouldn’t be on the hook beyond this year.
Financially, it’s a clean exit. And with the roster now at capacity, that kind of flexibility matters.
Other options are limited. Thanasis Antetokounmpo isn’t going anywhere-his presence in the locker room and connection to the franchise are well-documented.
Ousmane Dieng, acquired via trade, is still being evaluated and has intriguing upside. Everyone else on the roster is locked in with at least a player option for 2026-27.
That leaves Jackson as the most expendable piece.
A Track Record of Development
The Bucks have found success with two-way players before. Ryan Rollins is a recent example of someone who went from a developmental flier to a real contributor.
Nance is showing signs of being the next in line. Locking him into a multi-year deal would not only reward his play-it would also prevent him from hitting free agency this summer.
There’s value in that kind of foresight. Teams that build from within and reward internal development tend to foster strong locker room cultures.
Nance has done everything asked of him and more. The Bucks have a chance to send a message-not just to Nance, but to every young player watching-that hard work and production lead to opportunity.
The Bottom Line
Cam Thomas gives the Bucks another offensive weapon, but his addition complicates what should have been a straightforward decision. Pete Nance has earned a full-time NBA role, and Milwaukee needs to find a way to make it happen. Whether that means waiving Andre Jackson Jr. or exploring another route, the Bucks have about three weeks to figure it out.
Nance is proving he belongs. Now it’s up to Milwaukee to make room for him.