Milwaukee Bucks Eye Trade Moves Amid Mediocre NBA Season

The Milwaukee Bucks, currently holding an 18-16 record midway through the 2024-25 NBA season, are exploring potential trade options to bolster their roster. Despite a rocky 2-8 start, the team has shown improvement, going 16-8 in their last 24 games. However, with a 5-5 record in their last 10 games, the Bucks are looking to make strategic moves to strengthen their position in the Eastern Conference.

In their most recent victory, the Bucks defeated the Toronto Raptors 128-104 on Monday night. Damian Lillard led the team with 25 points, while Bobby Portis added 20 points off the bench. Giannis Antetokounmpo contributed a triple-double with 11 points, 12 rebounds, and 13 assists. Despite these individual performances, the team is considering trades to address gaps in their lineup.

Trade rumors have been swirling around the Bucks, with potential targets including Miami Heat‘s Jimmy Butler. The team is also reportedly considering moving aging star Damian Lillard to acquire younger talent. One proposed trade scenario involves the Bucks receiving Naji Marshall, Dwight Powell, and a 2030 first-round pick from the San Antonio Spurs, while sending Bobby Portis to the Dallas Mavericks.

Portis, who is averaging 8.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.2 assists this season, could provide the Mavericks with much-needed offensive firepower. Meanwhile, Marshall and Powell would bring defensive prowess and size to the Bucks’ rotation. The inclusion of a first-round pick adds an enticing element to the potential deal, offering Milwaukee additional flexibility for future moves.

As the trade deadline approaches, the Bucks’ front office is under pressure to make decisions that could shape the team’s trajectory for the remainder of the season and beyond. With key players like Antetokounmpo and Lillard in their prime, Milwaukee is aiming to capitalize on their championship window by making strategic roster upgrades.