It’s no secret the Milwaukee Bucks have limited moves to improve their roster around Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. The thing is, it would be a better choice to keep their trade assets instead of cashing them in, as mentioned in the latest NBA analysis.
Antetokounmpo’s future with the Bucks has come under scrutiny following another early playoff exit a couple of months ago. Despite his remarkable stats, including averaging 30.4 points and 11.5 rebounds during the 2023-24 season, the Bucks were eliminated in the first round for the second time in three years, this time by the Indiana Pacers.
The addition of Lillard was expected to bolster the team, yet Lillard’s performance, with 24.3 points per game and a lackluster three-point shooting rate, raised concerns about the team’s chemistry. Antetokounmpo’s frustrations are palpable, especially as he contemplates the direction of the franchise as free agency approaches.
If the Bucks fail to enhance their roster significantly, Antetokounmpo may begin exploring other options, potentially considering trades or free agency after the 2024-25 season. Teams like the Golden State Warriors could emerge as viable destinations if he decides to seek a change. The pressure is mounting on the Bucks’ front office to act decisively, as retaining one of the league’s premier talents is critical not only for the team’s future but also for the balance of power in the NBA.
Fans and analysts alike are keenly watching how the Bucks will respond to this pivotal moment. The upcoming offseason may be crucial for shaping the team’s trajectory and ensuring that Antetokounmpo remains committed to Milwaukee. Without significant improvements, the Bucks risk losing their star player, which could have lasting implications for the franchise and the league as a whole.
NBA Analysis Drops Reason Why Milwaukee Bucks Should Keep Their Best Trade Assets
As it stands, Antetokounmpo is the Bucks’ best player right now and the front office should do everything to keep him in Milwaukee. According to an NBA analysis by Greg Swartz for Bleacher Report, the franchise should also hold on their other players rather than trading them.
Best Trade Assets: F Bobby Portis, SG AJ Johnson, 2031 first-round pick
The Milwaukee Bucks aren’t going to get many teams to even pick up the phone in trade negotiations, as the asset collection is pretty bare here.
Portis should be kept, as he provides valuable insurance in case Brook Lopez (36 years old) or Giannis Antetokounmpo (missed the entire postseason) is sidelined due to injury. Portis averaged 16.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, 1.8 steals and shot 46.5 percent from three in the 12 games he played 30 or more minutes last season.
Johnson, the 23rd overall pick in the 2024 draft, is still extremely raw. He could be a low-cost development project for the Bucks over the next few years, but the franchise should trade him if it means bringing in a veteran for the rotation.
Antetokounmpo will be 36 by the time the 2031 draft rolls around, and Damian Lillard will likely be retired at age 40. It’s safe to say Milwaukee should keep this pick.
The Bucks enter the 2024-25 season with high hopes after a disappointing previous year, where they were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. With the pairing of Lillard and Antetokounmpo, alongside Rivers, the team seeks to improve its performance.
Despite uncertainties, a projected record of 52-30 suggests the Bucks could be strong contenders if they find their rhythm. Of course, there’s a stronger chance of that record becoming a reality if the team will hold onto their best trade assets.
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