Early this morning, Milwaukee Bucks center Greg Monroe told the team that would be opting into his deal this year which is worth 17.55 million dollars. Some wondered if Monroe would use his stellar sixth man season and try to find offers of the same price tag. But it’s likely Monroe saw the deal that Atlanta did for Dwight Howard to Charlotte and saw the center market does not make the same money that it used to. The question is how will Bucks keep him or try to move him as they head closer to the luxury tax with Tony Snell needed to be signed.

If Monroe stays a Buck, I’m here for a ‘Greg Monroe Contract Year’ from him. He will be in the running for Sixth Man of the Year along with running the second team. The combination of Thon Maker and Monroe worked spectacularly last season. There’s no reason to think Moose’s role would change with the team. To me, the former first round pick always felt like a silent leader of the team, and someone who played bodyguard for other members of the team. Also, the combination of Malcolm Brogdon and him was a highlight of last season.

While many are excited to have Monroe back in a Bucks uniform, it does pave the way for a potential trade. Bucks are close to the luxury tax as they sit with 109 million in guaranteed money. My guess is they are going to try and get creative by sending away John Henson then Mirza Teletovic. We’ll see if the young Jon Horst will be able to convince a team to take on that money for a subpar big man. You never know, but to get Tony Snell, it might mean dealing Mooose to free up some money for the team.

After a weird GM search, step 1 is complete with the Bucks offseason. If Horst is like his mentor, John Hammond, he’s going to have a fun Thursday night.

Charlie.