The Milwaukee Bucks are heading into a pivotal NBA season. The trade for Damian Lillard was expected to push them over the top, but Year 1 of the experiment didn’t go as planned. A midseason coaching change, followed by a first-round playoff exit, was far from the outcome the team envisioned.
However, the Bucks have reasons for optimism as they prepare for the upcoming season. A healthy Giannis Antetokounmpo and a rejuvenated Damian Lillard are already motivating factors.
Additionally, the team made an underrated offseason signing in Gary Trent Jr., who is expected to slot in seamlessly at shooting guard and complete a strong starting five.
However, there are still areas of concern on the Bucks’ roster. The second unit has undergone changes and looks much improved, but the team still needs reliable backup point guard minutes, and Delon Wright may not be the solution.
Here are three players the Bucks could target in trades next season:
Jordan Clarkson, Utah Jazz
Milwaukee’s flexibility is limited, given their status as a second-apron team. Despite this, Jordan Clarkson makes a lot of sense for the Bucks, addressing several of their needs. At $14.1 million, his contract wouldn’t significantly strain their cap space. As a backup, Clarkson would be one of the best available options, having won the Sixth Man of the Year award.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jordan Clarkson, Utah Jazz, Milwaukee Bucks Updates
Last season, Clarkson averaged 17.1 points and 5 assists with the Utah Jazz. Pairing him with Bobby Portis and newly signed Taurean Prince would give Milwaukee a formidable bench capable of competing at a high level.
Kris Dunn, LA Clippers
Another potential option for the Bucks’ backup point guard role is Kris Dunn, who has made a name for himself with the Utah Jazz. Over the past two seasons, he has averaged 7.4 points and 4.3 assists per game. What makes Dunn particularly appealing is his 39% shooting from beyond the arc, adding valuable spacing to the Bucks’ offense.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kris Dunn, Utah Jazz, Milwaukee Bucks Updates
Defensively, Dunn could shine alongside Lillard, providing the Bucks with an additional layer of toughness in the backcourt. The former Chicago Bulls guard would offer a steady presence on a team aiming for a deep playoff run. Perhaps he’d be an intriguing option if the LA Clippers underachieve and decide to become sellers.
Dennis Schroder, Brooklyn Nets
Though Dennis Schroder is currently set to take on a starting role with the Brooklyn Nets, an opportunity to compete for a championship with the Bucks could entice him.
Schroder has previously excelled as a sixth man with teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and Oklahoma City Thunder, and he could fill a similar role in Milwaukee. His playmaking, combined with his ability to score at all three levels, would make him a valuable offensive asset.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Dennis Schroder, Brooklyn Nets, Milwaukee Bucks Updates
What sets Schroder apart is his defense. While his size may limit him against larger guards, Schroder remains one of the toughest defenders at the point guard position. Adding him to the bench would strengthen the Bucks’ title hopes as they aim for a second championship in the last five years.
