Jae Crowder or Eric Gordon, which trade target should the Bucks prefer?

The 2023 NBA Trade Deadline is almost here, and the Milwaukee Bucks are yet to make a move.

In their pursuit of more talent this season, the Bucks have consistently been linked to two names: Jae Crowder and Eric Gordon. Milwaukee’s interest in Crowder surfaced shortly after he requested a trade from the Phoenix Suns, while their interest in Gordon is newer. In their ongoing pursuit of a capable wing, the Bucks seemingly have these two circled on their big board. Getting both is nearly impossible, so which of the two should they prefer? Let us get into it and decide.

The case for Jae Crowder being the Milwaukee Bucks’ preferred target

There are plenty of reasons why Milwaukee’s front office has essentially been pounding down the door in Phoenix to try and acquire Crowder for months.

First and foremost, the Bucks will always welcome any reputable defender with open arms, which is exactly the case with Crowder. Secondly, Crowder doubles as a big wing, which is another major need for the Bucks leading up to the deadline. After Khris Middleton went down in the postseason last year, Milwaukee’s lack of wing depth was exposed, and Crowder would help fortify it this year.

The 6-foot-6, Jae Crowder would give Coach Mike Budenholzer more versatility to utilize in his lineups, especially when the Bucks go small. While Pat Connaughton has done an admirable job in the limited minutes he has been called upon for the role, the Bucks could still use a legitimate four to place next to Giannis Antetokounmpo when the Greek Freak goes to center. Crowder would be just that, and he could help unlock one of the team’s deadlier lineups.

Simply put, Crowder is a coveted 3-and-D wing, which are incredibly useful in today’s NBA, and it is no surprise Milwaukee has been so persistent in its pursuit of him.