Milwaukee Bucks: 4 players worth targeting in a Thon Maker trade

JaMychal Green

With Mike Conley and Marc Gasol at the forefront of many of the more high profile trade rumors heading into the trade deadline, it appears as if the Memphis Grizzlies are finally ready for what many would argue is a long overdue teardown.

Beyond the star names, that may well leave Memphis looking to cash in on other valuable role players, such as JaMychal Green.

Green is unique on this list as the only player who would come close to a straight positional swap in any deal for Maker. That’s something the Bucks may not necessarily be averse to, even if it’s unlikely to be their top priority.

Behind Brook Lopez, the Bucks have a variety of smaller options who are well equipped to soak up minutes at the 5 spot, such as D.J. Wilson, Ersan Ilyasova, Christian Wood, and even superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Although primarily, and more naturally, a power forward, Green could certainly be added to that mix, and may be particularly intriguing considering Ilyasova’s struggles since returning from surgery to repair a broken nose.

Zach Lowe, again, recently pointed to Green’s availability among Grizzlies role players, as well as Memphis’ desire to recoup some of the second rounders they recently parted with to acquire Justin Holiday.

Writing about Green’s trade potential for SB Nation’s Grizzly Bear Blues, GothamGrizzly highlighted the 28-year-old’s versatility:

"“For JaMychal Green, his versatility and rebounding fit any potential playoff roster. Over the past 3 seasons, Green has produced as a starter, sixth man, and reliable reserve. He has shown the mindset to adapt to any role, and also the ability to use his energy and emotions as an advantage. Yet, it is his ability to rebound that defines his relevance.”"

They’re certainly traits and skills the Bucks would be glad to integrate into their rotation, and for a rebuilding Grizzlies team, taking a chance on Maker could be worthwhile. Again, it could take a second round pick to get a deal over the line, but the basic structure of Maker and filler works as a solid starting point.

Green could certainly be useful to the Bucks in the months ahead, and with his $7.8 million contract expiring in the summer, a deal would only add to Milwaukee’s cap space.