The Milwaukee Bucks were not able to defend their crown, losing to the Boston Celtics in the second round. Milwaukee was without Khris Middleton, who is their second-best player, and his presence was sorely missed.

The Bucks went through stretches where they were unable to score as Boston keened in on Giannis Antetokounmpo. Antetokounmpo still dominated, averaging 33.9 points, 14.7 rebounds, 7.1 assists, 1.1 blocks, and a steal per game. He shot 45.7 percent from the field and 25 percent from 3-point range.

Antetokounmpo is one of the best players in the league, if not the best. At the age of 27, he is a two-time MVP, Finals MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and much more. Milwaukee will look to bounce fully healthy next season with Giannis at the peak of his powers, and a good offseason could go a long way.

The talent level in the NBA is high right now, with many teams on the rise. The Bucks are going to be a contender, and improving their depth could help them get back to the Finals.

With that said, here are three players the Bucks must sign in 2022 NBA free agency.

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Bucks 2022 NBA Free Agency Targets

3. Gary Payton II

Gary Payton II turned out to be an integral part of the Golden State Warriors' bench. While Payton isn't the star his father was, he is a good two-way role player.

In the postseason, he averaged 6.5 points along with 3.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. He shot a very efficient 65.9 percent from the field and 53.3 percent from behind the arc. Payton was tasked with guarding opposing teams' top perimeter players when put into the game.

With Wesley Matthews hitting free agency, Payton would be a nice replacement as a younger defensive ace if he leaves. Even if Matthews returns, Payton would be a nice depth option.

2. Bruce Brown

Bruce Brown is a great role player and made a big impact for the Brooklyn Nets this past season. Brown is entering free agency and could draw interest from multiple contending teams.

In the Nets' first-round series against the Boston Celtics, Brown played at a high level. He averaged 14.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.3 steals in about 35 minutes per game. Brown shot 56.8 percent from the field and 42.9 percent from downtown.

He would be a phenomenal fit for the Bucks, whether he's in the starting lineup or off the bench. Brown would be another good defender for Milwaukee and offer some shotmaking. He stepped up as a third option behind Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving against Boston.

Brown would be a fantastic acquisition if the Bucks can pick him up.

1. Bobby Portis

While the aforementioned free agents would be good additions, it is essential that Milwaukee brings back Bobby Portis. Portis has a player option for next season but is expected to decline in hopes of signing a long-term deal.

Portis has become a fan favorite for the Bucks, providing energy and intensity. He has thrived in his role with the Bucks and fits exceptionally well with Antetokounmpo.

Although Portis is not a star player, he is a star in his role. This season, he took a step up, averaging 14.6 points and 9.1 rebounds while shooting 47.9 percent from the field and 39.3 percent from three-point land. Portis makes an impact on both ends of the floor and does it at a high level.

Re-signing Portis would keep Milwaukee with a great big rotation.

While the Bucks didn't repeat as champions, they will still be contenders for the foreseeable future. A good free agency period can help them get back on top.