Bucks Eye Trade for Trail Blazers’ Rising Star Toumani Camara

MILWAUKEE, Wis. — The Milwaukee Bucks are reportedly exploring a potential trade for Portland Trail Blazers‘ rising star Toumani Camara, a 24-year-old wing who has quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier perimeter defenders. With the NBA trade deadline less than a month away, the Bucks are considering a multi-team deal to bolster their defensive lineup.

Camara, a 6’7”, 220-pound forward, has averaged 9.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game this season. Known for his lockdown defense, he has held some of the league’s top scorers, including Stephen Curry, to subpar performances. His defensive prowess has earned him recognition as one of the most impactful young defenders in the NBA.

“That was one of the hardest parts of the trade,” said Phoenix Suns coach Frank Vogel, reflecting on Camara’s inclusion in the Damian Lillard trade. “We were high on him as a prospect. Once we saw him play in summer league, we got even more excited. But in this league, to get something good, you have to give up something good.”

The proposed trade would involve a complex four-team deal, with the Bucks sending Chris Livingston, Tyler Smith, and AJ Johnson, along with multiple second-round picks, to acquire Camara. The Trail Blazers would receive Livingston, Taj Gibson, and three second-round picks in return. The Charlotte Hornets and San Antonio Spurs would also participate, acquiring Johnson and Smith, respectively.

Camara’s offensive game has shown steady improvement, with his three-point shooting rising from 33.7% to 35.1% on increased volume. While not a primary scorer, his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor makes him an attractive target for the Bucks, who are looking to strengthen their perimeter defense ahead of a playoff push.

If the trade goes through, Camara could slot into the Bucks’ rotation as a key defensive piece, potentially starting alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. His versatility would allow Milwaukee to experiment with small-ball lineups, pairing him with Antetokounmpo at center for added defensive flexibility.

However, the deal faces hurdles. Portland’s high valuation of Camara and the Bucks’ reluctance to part with multiple draft assets could complicate negotiations. Additionally, trading two 2024 draft picks so soon after selecting them has drawn criticism, as the Bucks are in a win-now mode.

Camara’s impact on the court is undeniable. According to Basketball Index, he ranks in the 99th percentile for isolation perimeter defense. His ability to guard elite scorers and contribute offensively, even in a limited role, makes him a valuable asset for any contender.

As the trade deadline approaches, the Bucks must weigh the cost of acquiring Camara against the potential benefits of adding a young, defensive-minded wing to their roster. Whether the deal materializes remains to be seen, but Camara’s emergence as a two-way threat has certainly caught the attention of teams across the league.