The Milwaukee Bucks were given the draft rights to the 36th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft in a trade with the Orlando Magic. The Magic drafted Andre Jackson Jr. on behalf of the Bucks and Milwaukee sent a 2030 second round pick and cash to Orlando.
The trade, however, almost did not happen. NBA insider Marc Stein revealed today that the Dallas Mavericks had tried to pry the 36th overall pick away from Orlando in a trade that would have involved Bol Bol. The 7’2″ center was waived today by the Magic.
The Dallas Mavericks Wanted to Trade for Bol Bol and the 36th Pick
In Stein’s most recent article, he revealed that the Mavericks were trying to get the 36th overall pick from Orlando. To sweeten the deal, they wanted to acquire Bol Bol and his $2.2 million contract.
“Dallas did express draft night interest in former Magic forward Bol Bol, league sources say, but I’m told Bol wasn’t the true target of the talks.
“The offer, sources said, was a pitch from the Mavericks to the Magic to take on Bol’s contract for next season for the right to acquire Orlando’s No. 36 pick in last month’s draft.
“The Magic declined that pitch and traded No. 36 to Milwaukee instead in exchange for a 2030 second-round pick and cash considerations. Orlando drafted UConn guard Andre Jackson Jr. on the Bucks’ behalf.”
Of course, the Magic declined the offer. Instead, they accepted the Bucks’ offer of the 2030 second round pick and cash considerations.
Why Did the Orlando Magic Take the Milwaukee Bucks’ Offer?
What is missing from Stein’s report is what the Mavericks were willing to offer in return. It must not have been as good as the Bucks’ offer if the Magic rejected it. In any case, Milwaukee was able to get a top second round pick that many feel could be the team’s backup point guard this season.
Could the Milwaukee Bucks Sign Bol Bol?
They could, but they won’t. Milwaukee gained their backup center when the signed Robin Lopez over the weekend. Bobby Portis can also play center, so adding another big man would clog up the roster.
What Milwaukee does need is a backup point guard. As mentioned, that role could be filled by Andre Jackson, but Milwaukee could also sign a veteran at a minimum deal. Kendrick Nunn has been named as a possible target, but there have been no substantial reports of talks between the two parties.
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