"It's clear the Milwaukee Bucks want guard John Salmons in their lineup again next season.

Bucks general manager John Hammond confirmed Thursday that he has discussed a contract extension with Salmons and his agent, Joel Bell.

Hammond would not discuss specifics of the offer, but it is believed the Bucks have offered a maximum extension that would include Salmons' opt-in year and three additional years for a total of nearly $27 million.

The 30-year-old Salmons has a player option for $5.8 million for the 2010-'11 season, but he could choose to opt out of the deal and become a free agent. If he does that, the Bucks and other NBA teams would not be able to negotiate with him until July 1 when the free agency period begins."