Even though the Milwaukee Bucks don’t have a lot of moves to make right now, there are options available for the team if they want to improve their roster. According to one NBA analysis, though, the Giannis Antetokounmpo-led squad would do well to pass on Utah Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson.
As the Utah Jazz navigate their rebuilding phase, Jordan Clarkson’s role and trade value have become pressing topics. Clarkson, a dynamic scorer and former Sixth Man of the Year, averaged 17 points per game last season, showcasing his ability to ignite the offense. However, at 31, his fit within a young team is more complex.
The Jazz are attempting to cultivate a strong team culture while developing emerging talents. Clarkson’s experience is invaluable, yet his scoring prowess alone may not justify his position on the roster, especially as the team pivots toward the future. His defensive limitations pose challenges; standing out as a liability on that end can hinder a team’s playoff aspirations.
Furthermore, trading with Danny Ainge, known for his shrewd negotiations, can be daunting. Ainge’s history suggests that any deal might lead to long-term regret.
Milwaukee Bucks Urged To Pass on Utah Jazz’ Jordan Clarkson in Latest NBA Analysis
Although the Bucks have limited options to improve the roster, there are still some that the front office can pursue. In an article written by Aitor Darias for Behind the Buck Pass, Clarkson isn’t one of those options.
“First, this should be less of a problem if Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard and Khris Middleton have a healthy year, since it would be easier to have at least one of them on the court every time and run a more coherent offense. Also, Gary Trent Jr. is better at creating his own shot than Malik Beasley was, and Delon Wright can serve as a traditional backup point guard in organizing the offensive game without relying on the one-on-one scoring as much.
However, the biggest problem with this trade is the fact that, at this point, the Bucks are over the second apron, which means they cannot combine salaries in a trade and cannot gain salaries with it. So, since Clarkson is making $14 million this season, the only way of getting him is trading Giannis, Middleton, Lillard or Brook Lopez. Which makes Clarkson’s price too high to even consider this move,” Darias wrote.
Financially, Clarkson’s contract presents another hurdle. After signing a $55 million extension, his salary is set to decrease to $15 million annually over the next two years, making him a potentially attractive asset for teams contending for a championship. Yet, his recent injury issues—playing only 55 games last season—raise concerns about his reliability.
As it stands, the Bucks can consider other options in the market, such as pursuing Kris Dunn. In any case, it would be prudent for general manager Jon Horst and head coach Doc Rivers to pass on the former Sixth Man of the Year.
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