As we’ve discussed many times on this site previously. The Bucks are expected to be making some big moves this offseason. One of the trade targets we mentioned in a past article was Victor Oladipo. Funny enough, not long after we the article was published it was reported Oladipo wanted out of Indiana. Details on what Indiana is asking for and what Milwaukee is offering are not yet available so here are some thoughts.
Oladipo is an All-Star
It wasn’t long ago that Victor was named to his first All-Star team. Oladipo broke out in 2018-2019, one year after being traded from OKC in a package for Paul George. Just before the All-Star game he suffered a gruesome injury that kept him out of the rest of that season and most of the past season. Prior to the injury in 2019 he was averaging 18.8 points on 42% from the field, 34% from three. Not to mention 5 rebounds and 5 assists per game. The year before that he was even better on the stat sheet, posting 23 points per game with better shooting percentages.
When healthy he is able to provide more athleticism to run in transition, create shots for others, and can score pretty well from inside and outside. While he isn’t a typical spot-up shooter, he is versatile in his offensive game. Something many believe the Bucks missed last post season after they traded Brogdon. Oladipo would provide a true scoring threat that can create his own shot if Giannis and Middleton are having trouble.
The Risk
Now while Victor is definitely intriguing, he definitely carries risk for a team pursuing him. After returning from the injury last year his shooting percentages and points took a significant dip. While it was a small sample size (19 games played) it could be cause for concern. His defense leaves a little to be desired as well, playing about average defensively for most of his career. Due to his recent history and his request for a trade he may come cheaper than any other borderline star available.
Final Thoughts
It’ll be interesting to see what unfolds here. In my opinion Oladipo is a potentially great third or even second option depending on how he plays. If he regains his All-Star level play it would be a great pick up for the Bucks. It would help there push for a championship and further show Giannis they’re dedication to winning. If it doesn’t work out well, the Bucks pay him $21 million for the season as a lower-tier starter or very good bench player. His contract expires after the 2020-2021 season so they are not on the hook to pay him beyond next year if it doesn’t go well.
Since the Pacers know he wants out they don’t have much leverage unless more suitors come along. If the Bucks are able to keep Giannis and Middleton while finding a better replacement for Bledsoe at the point, I am all for this trade. To me, this has a chance of being a homerun deal for Milwaukee. Let us know what your thoughts are in the comments!
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