How This Trade Impacts Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks need to find a way to upgrade their second unit at some point in the coming months. Adding a little more insurance in the backcourt should be their No. 1 goal in any trade that they complete.
Re-signing Jevon Carter provides the team with solid insurance at the point guard spot, as relying on George Hill at this point in his career could be risky. Carter’s presence also enables them to use Hill’s contract to help match salary to acquire an upgrade such as Eric Gordon.
For this trade to make sense for the Bucks, they have to be sure that Serge Ibaka can help soak up minutes in the frontcourt. After playing nearly all of last season with Brook Lopez, as he appeared in only 13 games, he could be viewed as an expendable piece.
Bobby Portis is more than capable of stepping into the starting lineup as the center. Giannis Antetokounmpo can also soak up minutes there if need be. This two-for-one swap opens up a roster spot that the Bucks can use to bring in another player for the frontcourt as well.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Eric Gordon, Houston Rockets & Milwaukee Bucks Updates
The only real hold-up to making a deal like this would be the draft compensation. Would Milwaukee be willing to trade their last remaining first-round pick for Gordon? Their selection in 2029 is the only first-rounder they have to offer in a trade package. They could offer multiple second-round picks to try and entice the rebuilding Rockets to make a deal, but that could be a tough sell.
