It’s been said that in the NBA, defence wins championships. The Milwaukee Bucks are living proof. When they won their 2019-20 title, they did it on the back of their defense. With Brook Lopez, Giannis Antetokoumnpo and Jrue Holiday in their starting lineup, scoring on the Bucks was a chore.
With that said, last season, the Bucks didn’t even come close to winning a title. In fact, they were eliminated in the first round. Don’t be surprised if they seek to make upgrades to their roster this summer.
Moreover, don’t be surprised if those upgrades start at the defensive end. It seems as if the Bucks value stopping power. With that in mind, why not target Alex Caruso of the Chicago Bulls?
The Trade Proposal
Chicago Bulls Receive: G/F Pat Connaughton, 2029 First-Round Pick (MIL)
Milwaukee Bucks Receive: G Alex Caruso
Meanwhile, somebody apparently forgot to inform the Bulls about the value of defense. This roster was built to score. What else would a group built around Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Nikola Vucevic do? None of those stars are known for preventing points – they’re known for putting them on the board.
Yet, a funny thing happened in 2022-23. The Bulls actually fielded a solid defense. Somehow, they suffered on the offensive end of the floor.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Alex Caruso, Chicago Bulls & Milwaukee Bucks Updates
In all likelihood, it points to poor chemistry between their stars. In any event, plenty are expecting the Bulls to make major changes this summer. Would this be a wise one?
Why The Chicago Bulls Do The Deal
Of course, Caruso deserves a lot of credit for Chicago’s defense last season. He’s one of the best defensive guards in the NBA. With that in mind, losing him will hurt. On the other hand, this deal is designed to help the Bulls lose. It’s time for this team to tank.
Last year, that wasn’t an option. The Bulls owed their first-round pick to the Orlando Magic. As a result, the Magic were gifted the 11th overall pick in the NBA draft.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Alex Caruso, Chicago Bulls & Milwaukee Bucks Updates
This year, the Bulls have their pick. Clearly, this isn’t working. All told, this would likely be the first in a series of moves designed to prepare them for the future – while tanking their present. Does Caruso do enough for the Bucks right now?
Why The Milwaukee Bucks Do The Deal
Frankly, some people won’t like this deal for the Bucks. After all, Jrue Holiday is one of the few guards in the league who may defend better than Caruso. Meanwhile, both can struggle with shooting. Is this a good fit?
Well, there’s no redundancy on the defensive end of the floor. Two is better than one. With Holiday and Caruso sharing a backcourt, opposing guards will be in for a rough night whenever Milwaukee is in town.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Alex Caruso, Chicago Bulls & Milwaukee Bucks Updates
Offensively, we think it could work. The Bucks have five-out spacing with Brook Lopez in the middle. Khris Middleton is a knockdown shooter. This team can afford two shaky shooters. Especially if it gives them a dominant defense.
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