Assessing Bleacher Report’s 3 trade deadline targets for Milwaukee Bucks

Bleacher Report’s sneaky trade target for Milwaukee Bucks: Jalen Smith

This last one is undoubtedly surprising, which makes sense, given that it is categorized as a sneaky trade target for Milwaukee. Rumors have been swirling that the Phoenix Suns may be open to dealing former 10th overall pick Jalen Smith before the deadline, and the big man does indeed stand as an interesting target for the Bucks.

The 21-year-old has hardly played for the reigning Western Conference Champions throughout his first two NBA seasons, but he has shown some potential in brief spurts. For the Bucks, he could be a quality backup center to add to this bench unit as they aim to stay afloat without Lopez. Smith is far from a household name, but he could be a quality option to tack on some size at 6-foot-10.

Contract-wise, Smith is among the players that are reasonable for the cash-strapped Bucks, given that he is still on his rookie deal. Smith is currently making $4.6 million this season, but he will be an unrestricted free agent after the 2021-22 NBA season after Phoenix declined his team option before this season. The Bucks could utilize his services for at least the remainder of this season, and who knows, given his potential, perhaps the big man could develop into something with a larger opportunity.

The Bucks and Suns have had some contact over the past year as Milwaukee traded Torrey Craig to Phoenix before last year’s deadline. Perhaps the reigning Conference Champions could look to spark another deal centered around a former first round pick.

Keep an eye on these three potential trade targets as the Bucks look to bolster their roster.