As Giannis Antetokounmpo shows clear intent to remain with the Milwaukee Bucks, the team‘s focus shifts toward enhancing its roster to sustain championship contention. A Damian Lillard trade proposal involving Bucks has emerged, suggesting a significant three-team deal that could reshape the team’s future.
Despite Antetokounmpo’s determination to chase another NBA title, the Bucks face obstacles, including Damian Lillard’s torn Achilles which threatens his availability for the next season. With limited draft assets, Milwaukee cannot easily pursue elite talent, but a creative trade concept by Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale could provide a viable path forward by acquiring Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young.
Three-Team Trade Suggestion Proposes Trae Young for Damian Lillard
The proposed trade would send Trae Young to the Bucks, while the Hawks would receive a package including Jordan Poole, Marcus Smart, Andre Jackson Jr., Tyler Smith, and a series of future draft picks from Milwaukee. The Washington Wizards would acquire Lillard along with second-round picks.
This restructuring aims to pair Antetokounmpo with Young, a potentially more complimentary and long-term backcourt partner, while addressing salary cap concerns and roster balance for Milwaukee.
Uncertain Future for Trae Young in Atlanta Amid Contract Negotiations
Trae Young’s status with the Hawks is currently unsettled as he enters the final year of his contract and faces eligibility for a possible four-year, $229 million extension. However, ESPN’s Bobby Marks notes skepticism over whether Atlanta will offer Young the full max contract, especially without Young agreeing to a compromise deal, such as a three-year, $120 million contract.
The Hawks’ recent turmoil, including the dismissal of key executives Travis Schlenk and Landry Fields, underscores the team’s instability following a regression from their 2021 Eastern Conference Finals appearance. This uncertainty may influence Young’s willingness to remain in Atlanta, setting the stage for a potential trade.
Young’s Playing Style Fits Bucks’ Needs Better Than Lillard’s Currently
Young’s shooting range is comparable to Lillard’s, with similar average shot distances, which helps maintain floor spacing for Antetokounmpo to operate inside. Additionally, Young offers superior playmaking skills, potentially creating more scoring opportunities through alley-oops and precise passes.
Dan Favale highlights the Bucks’ defensive strength, finishing 12th in the league last season, as a key factor that could offset Young’s defensive limitations. If Milwaukee also re-signs center Brook Lopez, the team could further shore up its defense.
Milwaukee finished 12th overall in defense last season and can help cover for Young’s deficiencies on that end, especially if they can re-sign Brook Lopez in free agency,
Favale wrote.
Besides acquiring a younger co-star, the proposed trade would reduce the Bucks’ salary commitments by approximately $12.3 million, putting the team roughly $41 million below the first tax apron. This cap relief would allow Milwaukee to retain important role players like Bobby Portis and also take advantage of mid-level exceptions to add additional depth.
roughly $41 million below the first tax apron,
according to Favale.
Potential Impact of the Trade on Bucks’ Championship Prospects
The deal represents a strategic move by Milwaukee to maintain competitiveness in the Eastern Conference. By pairing Antetokounmpo with a dynamic, younger guard in Young, the Bucks could sustain their status as title contenders while managing financial flexibility.
For Antetokounmpo, having a durable and effective backcourt partner like Young may alleviate pressure and extend his tenure with the franchise, mitigating any trade request concerns. The Hawks, wrestling with roster uncertainty, and the Wizards, acquiring a veteran scorer in Lillard, would also undergo significant transformations in this three-way arrangement.