Milwaukee Bucks: Ranking 5 potential trade candidates this offseason
By Dalton Sell
Milwaukee Bucks: Ranking 5 potential trade candidates this offseason – No. 2 Chris Paul, Oklahoma City Thunder
Links between the Bucks and Oklahoma City Thunder guard Chris Paul have taken center stage in trade speculation this offseason, and it is clear to see why.
Eric Bledsoe, Milwaukee’s current floor general, has been the primary scapegoat for the team’s lack of postseason success, and justifiably so. With the Bucks looking to shake up their backcourt this offseason, bringing in a 10-time All-Star in Chris Paul seemed ideal.
Lowe reported in his piece that Milwaukee is not interested in the guard, however, not even kicking the tires on a potential deal.
"“There has been no traction so far — and maybe not even any talks — on any deal sending Chris Paul from the Oklahoma City Thunder to the Bucks, multiple sources say.”"
This furthered a report from last month detailing Milwaukee’s disinterest in Paul, citing the hefty two years $85 million left on his contract and personality conflicts. While both of those are feasible opinions, especially with Paul being 35 years old with an injury-riddled history, the guard could still be the missing piece in their quest for a title if they are willing to take the gamble.
Even at this stage in his career, Paul is a guaranteed upgrade over Bledsoe. An All-Star trio of Chris Paul, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Khris Middleton would unquestionably be the best in the Eastern Conference, giving the team a surefire Hall of Famer at the guard position.
Paul’s floor spacing, playmaking, clutchness, and defensive prowess fix many of Milwaukee’s issues that loom large after their disappointing playoff run this past season. After the phenomenal season that Paul just put together, perhaps the Bucks’ front office should reconsider their stance on the point guard.