The Milwaukee Bucks (17-23) are struggling to contend even in the wide-open Eastern Conference.
The reality is Giannis Antetokounmpo simply does not have the supporting cast necessary to make a push for the Larry O’Brien Trophy. Milwaukee’s second leading scorer behind Antetokounmpo is guard Kevin Porter Jr., who is averaging 18 points.
To change this, a blockbuster trade could be in store for the Bucks.
Bucks Predicted To Land Anthony Davis
It’s quite obvious the Dallas Mavericks (15-26) need to put their full attention into the Cooper Flagg era. Anthony Davis is failing to stay healthy, Klay Thompson is continuing to regress, and Kyrie Irving is yet to play this season.
Despite his struggles to stay on the floor, Davis remains one of the hottest names on the trade market. It’s worth noting he recently suffered a hand injury that is expected to sideline him for an extended period of time.
Still, Bleacher Report’s Andy Bailey predicts the Bucks could send ex-Los Angeles Lakers star Kyle Kuzma, Bobby Portis, Kevin Porter Jr., Andre Jackson Jr., and first-round pick swaps in 2031 and 2032 to the Mavericks for Davis.
“…It’s kind of hard to justify the Milwaukee Bucks going for Davis at all. But they may be driven by desperation,” Bailey wrote. “If Milwaukee wants to continue with Giannis as its cornerstone, his public comments over the last few years almost certainly put some pressure on the organization to keep expending assets well into the red.”
This deal instantly gives the Bucks the best defensive frontcourt in the NBA with Antetokounmpo, Davis, and Myles Turner. The issue, as previously mentioned, is the front office is gambling on Davis staying healthy at age 32. Given how much depth Milwaukee would be forced to part with to land Davis, it may not be worth it.
On the other hand, Davis does remain one of the NBA’s best two-way players when on the floor. He is averaging 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks on 50.6% shooting in 20 appearances this season.
For the Mavericks, the pick swaps are the big appeal. Kuzma is largely included because of his four-year, $90 million contract, while Porter Jr. and Portis could contribute to Dallas’ rotation right away.
