Coming off a disappointing run last season, the Milwaukee Bucks will need a new spark to energize their upcoming campaign. As it stands, the most realistic move they can make is to acquire Brandon Clarke from the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Bucks enter the 2024-25 NBA season with a refreshed roster following a relatively quiet offseason. After a disappointing playoff performance last year, the team focused on maintaining its core while making strategic adjustments. Key players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton, and Damian Lillard remain central to the team’s ambitions.
The Bucks retained their veteran presence, ensuring that experienced players like Brook Lopez and Bobby Portis continue to provide leadership and depth. However, the offseason saw the departure of several role players, prompting the need for emerging talents to step up. New additions such as Taurean Prince and Gary Trent Jr. are expected to bolster the roster, bringing versatility and scoring ability.
The projected depth chart highlights a mix of established stars and promising newcomers. The starting lineup is anticipated to feature Giannis at forward, complemented by Middleton and Lillard in key scoring roles. The bench will rely on Portis and the newly acquired players to maintain competitiveness throughout the season.
Memphis Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke Named as Potential Milwaukee Bucks’ Trade Target
While getting a big name won’t be possible anytime soon, there’s nothing that can stop Milwaukee from getting Clarke. The reason why is explained more in Eric Pincus’ NBA analysis for Bleacher Report.
“The Bucks have an aging, expensive roster with minimal flexibility to build around stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. Above the second apron, Milwaukee is limited to trades that don’t add salary or include aggregated players.
Since Portis will likely opt out of his $13.4 million for 2025-26, the Bucks may want to deal with him now if he proves too expensive to retain. One option might be Brandon Clarke from the Memphis Grizzlies, an athletic forward who has recovered from an Achilles injury.
That assumes Clarke is back to his bouncy, disruptive self. The Grizzlies hope to return to the playoffs after a down year, and Portis would be a strong fit,” Pincus wrote.
Over the course of his five-year career, Clarke has averaged 10.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.5 assists. He also shot 55 percent from the field in 21.3 minutes per game during that period.
As the Bucks aim to recapture their championship form, their success will hinge on the chemistry among the star players and the performance of the supporting cast. With the Eastern Conference becoming increasingly competitive, the Bucks may have to entertain the idea of acquiring Clarke as his talents may come in handy for Antetokounmpo and company down the line.
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