Key notes: Trent, Sheppard, Giddey, Bulls

Gary Trent Jr. He probably could have gotten a better offer elsewhere, but he chose to sign a veteran minimum contract with the dollar for the chance to win a title. In an interview with Sportskeeda's Grant Afseth, Trent talked about what attracted him to Milwaukee and hinted that he hopes this season will be the start of a longer future in the city.

“It's a great opportunity. I’m 25 and still have years to develop.” Trent said. “This is a great place to make a home and be part of something long-term. It’s an excellent organization with great players, a solid front office and good energy, so it’s been great so far.”

Trent took a significant pay cut in his seventh NBA season, playing for about $2.6 million after joining Toronto on a three-year, $51.8 million contract. The Bucks reportedly went on a strong recruiting spree following their loss Malik Beasley in free agency, and Trent is excited about the chance to work with him Giannis Antetokounmpo And Damian Lillard.

“I get to play with two players who are in the top 75 in NBA history.” Trent said. “The way they approach the game every night can only encourage everyone around them and bring some focus to their mindset. It’s about coming to terms with it and figuring it out together.”

There's more from the Central Division:

• Ben Sheppard was a valuable member of the PacemakerHe was the second unit last season, but it won't be easy to get equal playing time in a crowded rotation, writes Dustin Dopirak of The Indianapolis Star. Benedict Mathurin will take up plenty of minutes on the bench when he returns from injury, and Sheppard will compete with Mathurin and for time on the wing spots Jarace Walkertwo high lottery picks. “All I’m saying is that every chance I get to step on the floor, I just try to show the player that I am.” Sheppard said. “I'm just a team player, a high IQ player who just plays the right way. Every time I go out I feel like I don’t have to do anything beyond my abilities.”
• There is still a gap in between Bulls And Josh Giddey According to KC Johnson of the Chicago Sports Network (Twitter link), the rookie scale extension deadline is approaching on Monday. Johnson points out that the team's recent practice has been to let last year play out and re-sign players as restricted free agents, as was the case with him Coby White And Patrick Williams.
• Strong performances from White and Zach LaVinealong with an encouraging return from Lonzo Ballgive that Bulls Reasons for optimism, notes Julia Poe of The Chicago Tribune in a review of the preseason. However, there are concerns about Williams, who had to miss two preseason games with wrist and ankle injuries.