John Henson says he and Bucks ‘close’ on contract extension

John Henson and the Bucks were reportedly close on a contract extension July 13.

Since then, nothing.

But it doesn’t seem this was a Tristan Thompson-level falling out.

Henson, via Gery Woelfel of RacineSportsZone.com:

“We’re close,’’ Henson said of contract talks. “We’re just trying to work out some details. It’s a process; we’ll see what happens. But I definitely want to be here for a long time.’’

A lot of extension eligible players say they’re “optimistic,” but I read “close” differently (though perhaps Henson didn’t intend that distinction).

The Bucks don’t need Henson quite as much with Greg Monroe, but Henson provides an important defensive element. He moves well and protects the rim, making him an excellent fit in Jason Kidd’s scheme. Plus, Henson has shot efficiently.

I appeared on the Dunc’d On mock-contract-extension podcast. I negotiated as the Bucks, and Nate Duncan played Henson’s agent. For what it’s worth, we agreed on a four-year, $44 million extension.