Milwaukee Bucks: Breaking down hypothetical James Harden trade
By Dalton Sell
Why the Milwaukee Bucks do it
With Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future with the franchise uncertain, the Milwaukee Bucks are all-in on pursuing a championship. While the two-time MVP still has until the December 21st deadline to sign an extension with the Bucks, it appears more evident with each passing day that he might elect to play out the season without a new deal.
While trading for James Harden might not guarantee a signature from Antetokounmpo, it surely could help. Bringing aboard a consensus top-five player in the league and one of the most prolific scorers in league history sounds like an ideal running mate for the foreseeable future, even if the two have a history of verbal jabs over the years.
Winning a title is the top priority for both of these former MVPs, and they could undoubtedly push their differences aside to pursue that goal. With Harden reportedly referring to Milwaukee as a preferred destination, it would appear he believes that assumption can become a reality.
The Bucks would give up a king’s ransom to acquire Harden in any trade, but this would be the ultimate all-in move to pursue a championship. A trio of Giannis Antetokounmpo, James Harden, and Jrue Holiday is also formidable, arguably the best in the entire association, on paper.
If Milwaukee were to pull off a trade, they also get some security with Harden. The 31-year old is under contract officially for the next two seasons, set to make $41.3 million this coming season, $44.3 million the following. He holds a player option worth an astounding $47.4 million in 2022-23.
That gives the Milwaukee Bucks a two-year window to win with Harden guaranteed to be on the roster, but in the end, it comes down to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s decision.
As for P.J. Tucker, he is a player that the Bucks have also been linked to recently. Milwaukee was interested in the swingman earlier this offseason, and they could get him along with Harden in a deal, it would be a substantial boost. Tucker is an elite defender and one of the best corner 3-point shooters in NBA history, making him an ideal fit in Milwaukee’s frontcourt.
dark. Next. Milwaukee Bucks: 3 reasons to pursue James Harden trade
Ultimately, the chances of the Milwaukee Bucks landing James Harden remain unrealistic, but speculation will continue to loom.