NBA Trades: 4 rumors the Bucks should get in on, 1 they should avoid

A trade rumor the Bucks should avoid – James Harden wants a new home

There’s no denying at all that James Harden is the most accomplished player on this particular list. That may have some scratching their heads as to why the Milwaukee Bucks should avoid pursuing him via trade after the former MVP recently asked for a move away from the Philadelphia 76ers. Well, it all boils down to several factors.

First and foremost, any Harden trade would almost certainly include Jrue Holiday due to salaries. One of Bucks’ fans’ biggest gripes with Holiday in recent memory has been his playoff struggles. Well, Harden is also known to struggle quite a bit in the playoffs; they wouldn’t exactly be getting a proven playoff performer here.

There’s no doubt that Harden would form a lethal offensive trio alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton. Those three would be must-see television every night. Yet, even if it may be a bit overblown, the “beef” between Harden and Antetokounmpo from several years ago cannot just be ignored. The two traded verbal blows previously after Giannis won MVP over Harden in 2019.

The Bucks would potentially disrupt their chemistry by adding Harden and moving Holiday, who is known as one of the best teammates in the entire league by his peers.

One also has to consider Harden’s contract situation. The guard has one year left on his deal and will then seek a major extension. Do the Bucks want to commit long-term money to the almost 34-year-old? With Harden seemingly so adamant about landing with the LA Clippers, would he bolt after one year anywhere else? It’s risky.

The Milwaukee Bucks would be better off looking elsewhere if they want to make a splash.

Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.