The Milwaukee Bucks appear confident about finishing the season with Giannis Antetokounmpo on the roster. Milwaukee has been involved in trade rumors due to Antetokounmpo potentially wanting a move with the roster not suitable to contend for an NBA Championship. Despite the team’s struggles this season, Antetokounmpo seemed set on committing to the team in the post-game interview after his return from injury.
The Bucks are now involved in rumors of adding more talent to improve their chances of success and with the hope of making Giannis happy. ESPN’s Jamal Collier has reported that three names are in reported discussions:
“Multiple team and league sources say the team has been active in pursuing the trade market, engaging in internal conversations about, among others, Sacramento’s Zach LaVine, whom they have had interest in and chances to acquire in the past, and Malik Monk, as well as Portland’s Jerami Grant.”
All three players are on teams that may want to make a move for future assets. Milwaukee holds limited assets to make their deals much more difficult than the average team. Opposing front offices must want to get out of contracts or take the risk on less certain pieces in return.
Could These Potential Trades Help Giannis?
The Sacramento Kings are very pivotal to this report due to two of the three players being on their roster. Zach LaVine is the biggest name and the best chance for the Bucks to improve the roster’s ceiling. A former All-Star and strong scorer would give Antetokounmpo a second offensive weapon every night.
Sacramento would likely be happy to dump LaVine’s contact since their chances for playoff contention have failed badly this season. Malik Monk is the other Kings guard that Milwaukee would like to acquire for a much cheaper price. Multiple players on the roster could match Monk’s deal, and the Bucks wouldn’t have to give up much on the draft side for the veteran.
Portland Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant might be the most impressive overall name on the list since he offers more than just offense. Milwaukee would love a versatile wing player who could both defend opposing stars and put up enough scoring to help Giannis on the offense. All three players could improve the Bucks’ playoff chances, but the path to contending for a title remains difficult.
What Does Giannis Want From Milwaukee?
The confusion surrounding Antetokounmpo’s future has seen him making differing comments at various points. Giannis has talked about the desire to contend for an NBA Championship being most important and was reported to demand a move to the New York Knicks this past offseason.
However, the recent month and his return from injury has seen him calling it “disrespectful” for reporters to ask if he wants to stay with the team. Milwaukee has shown a desire to make moves to appease Antetokounmpo and prioritize his happiness with the roster.
The trade market for Giannis is less deep than expected with the top targets having nearly flawless seasons so far to fear making a big change. Antetokounmpo is likely here to stay with the Bucks, and the team is trying to keep him around in the long-term by making more moves.
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