The 2022 NBA Trade Deadline is officially here, and the Milwaukee Bucks are rumored to be in the market for some moves. While the Bucks have been linked to several interesting trade candidates, the ensuing buyout market is where the defending champions could truly fortify their roster ahead of the postseason.
There are a handful of household players rumored to potentially hit the buyout market if they are not moved before the deadline, many of which could be compelling for Milwaukee. To round up the potential buyout targets, Spotrac’s Keith Smith recently delivered a list of players that could be on the move post-deadline. With that said, let us look at Smith’s list and examine some players that should be possible targets for the Bucks.
Milwaukee Bucks’ buyout target No. 1 – Serge Ibaka
Serge Ibaka has been mentioned in numerous trade rumors leading up to the deadline, and Smith notes that he could potentially be bought out if he is not dealt. In that case, he would be a quality backup big man for the Bucks to look at. Of course, the Bucks are optimistic that Brook Lopez can return later this season following back surgery in December, but adding a household veteran like Ibaka for the time being as insurance is a justifiable idea.
Ibaka has spent a majority of his time with the Clippers on the sidelines as the big man has battled with injuries. Due to these injuries, Ibaka is currently having one of his least productive seasons to date by averaging 6.6 points 4.3 rebounds, and an assist in a career-low 15.4 minutes per contest. Those numbers certainly do not jump off the page, but Ibaka could be a serviceable big man to suit up behind Bobby Portis at the center position for the time being. The 32-year-old could provide a dose of reputable defense and perimeter shooting in the frontcourt.
Despite his recent injury history, the Bucks would be wise to kick the tires on adding Ibaka if he is indeed bought out. They would not be asking him to play a significant role, calling on him from time to time to give Portis or Giannis Antetokounmpo a break from playing center.