The Milwaukee Bucks did not come anywhere close to accomplishing the goals that they had from themselves going into the 2023-24 NBA season. Firing head coach Mike Budenholzer and hiring Adrian Griffin along with trading Jrue Holiday for Damian Lillard were supposed to help propel the Bucks back to the NBA Finals. Instead, they settled, once again, for a first-round series loss.
Of course, there were many reasons for their disappointing season. Milwaukee felt Griffin was not doing a good enough job (despite being 30-13) and fired him midway through the season. Lillard did not workout at all last offseason out of fear of getting hurt before being traded, so he was not in good shape all season long.
And, of course, Giannis Antetokounmpo getting hurt so close to the NBA Playoffs and missing their entire series against the Indiana Pacers played a major role in the frustrating end to their season.
Trade Rumors Involving Milwaukee Bucks Point Guard Damian Lillard Have Already Begun

In the past, many of these quick-reaction trade proposals have centered around Giannis Antetokounmpo. Now, many of them are focused on Lillard, probably because he has already been traded once.
In a recent article posted by Fadeaway World, Fran Leiva suggests that Milwaukee could trade Lillard to the San Antonio Spurs where he would pair up with Victor Wembanyama:
Spurs receive: Damian Lillard
Bucks receive: Keldon Johnson, Devonte’ Graham, Jeremy Sochan, 2024 No. 4 pick, 2024 No. 8 pick
“Adding Damian Lillard would be a game-changer for San Antonio. His presence would not only elevate the team’s performance but also provide invaluable mentorship to Wembanyama and the other young players. The Spurs have been actively searching for a top-tier point guard to pair with Wembanyama, and Lillard fits the bill perfectly.
“The Bucks, on the other hand, would receive a substantial return for Lillard. Keldon Johnson is a rising star who averaged 15.7 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, offering immediate offensive firepower and defensive capabilities.
“Devonte’ Graham brings veteran guard experience, and Jeremy Sochan adds versatile defense and potential as a key rotational player. The inclusion of the 2024 No. 4 and No. 8 picks gives Milwaukee valuable assets for rebuilding or making additional strategic trades to bolster their roster around Giannis Antetokounmpo.”
It is easy to see how, for a Spurs fan, pairing Wemby and Lillard would be an exciting prospect. Additionally, it is difficult not to see the value in having two top-ten NBA Draft picks coming back in return.
Also Read: Milwaukee Bucks Send Damian Lillard to the Brooklyn Nets for Massive Haul in Bonkers Trade Proposal
However, this trade proposal is nothing but a pipe dream.
The Milwaukee Bucks Are Not Trading Damian Lillard

There is one reason, and one reason only, that Lillard got traded last offseason: because he wanted to be. It was a well-known public fact that the All-Star point guard had asked the Portland Trailblazers to trade him.
This offseason is completely different. Not only has Lillard not requested a trade, he has repeatedly voiced his dedication to the Bucks and has committed himself to working with Giannis this offseason as they work toward the ultimate goal of winning an NBA Championship together.
The above trade would be a disaster for the Bucks, who would no longer have a Lillard-esque secondary option on the team. Khris Middleton would resume that role, and while Milwaukee won a title with him in that role, it is much better if he is playing third fiddle to Giannis and Dame.
It is a trade that would indicate a short rebuild with the addition of two top-10 draft picks. The Bucks are not interested in a rebuild.
They are interested in winning a NBA Championship, and they will need Lillard on the team in order to do that.
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1 Comment
Anyone who thinks San Antonio will trade any picks is pulling your leg. San Antonio will use its picks and get who they need. Remember what I Say.