The Milwaukee Bucks are actively pursuing Jonathan Kuminga as a potential Damian Lillard replacement trade to help retool their roster after parting ways with Lillard this offseason. With the team adding Myles Turner on a four-year contract, Milwaukee aims to complement Turner and star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo by acquiring a dynamic player to carry additional responsibilities on the wing.
Kuminga’s Appeal and Trade Conditions
Jonathan Kuminga, a promising forward from the Golden State Warriors, has attracted serious interest from the Bucks as they look to bolster their lineup. According to basketball insider Evan Sidery, Milwaukee is considering a sign-and-trade deal that would involve giving up a 2031 first-round pick and a young talent from their bench to secure Kuminga. While this represents a significant investment, the Bucks appear willing to pay a premium for a player with Kuminga’s energy and championship experience at just 22 years old.
Kuminga’s blend of versatility and youthful championship pedigree is particularly appealing. Having already won an NBA title with the Warriors, he brings a mix of defensive capability and offensive creativity that could complement the playing style of Giannis Antetokounmpo, helping the Bucks maintain their status as title contenders in the competitive Eastern Conference.
Kuminga’s Rising Role with the Warriors
Last season, Kuminga’s role expanded with the Warriors, especially after Klay Thompson’s departure to Dallas. He averaged 23.4 minutes per game, showcasing an increasingly effective offensive skill set during the playoffs, which helped Golden State advance to the conference semifinals. Throughout the 2024-2025 season, Kuminga averaged 15.3 points, 2.2 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per contest, proving his ability to contribute across multiple areas on the court.
These strong performances have put Kuminga on the radar of multiple teams, including the Bucks, who see him as a potential key piece to elevate their competitiveness following Lillard’s exit. His ability to integrate into Milwaukee’s system alongside Turner and Giannis could strengthen their roster depth and versatility significantly.
Impact and Future Prospects for the Bucks
Milwaukee’s pursuit of Kuminga demonstrates a clear commitment to remaining contenders despite the loss of Damian Lillard. With strategic moves like acquiring Turner and potentially Kuminga, the Bucks are not merely seeking a replacement—they are aiming to upgrade their core and build a team capable of a deep playoff run. Success in landing Kuminga could reshape the Bucks’ championship aspirations and keep them firmly in the conversation at the highest level of the NBA’s Eastern Conference.
“The Bucks are seriously contemplating a sign-and-trade for Kuminga… nabbing Kuminga might just cost Milwaukee its 2031 first-round pick and a budding star from their own bench—a hefty price, but that’s the cost of doing business when you’re chasing championships.” — Evan Sidery, Basketball Insider
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What surgery did Damian Lillard have?
A. The Milwaukee Bucks stated that guard Damian Lillard had a successful surgery on Friday. It was done to fix a torn Achilles tendon in his left leg. Dr. Neal ElAttrache performed the surgery in Los Angeles, with guidance from the Bucks’ orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Brian Cole.