The Milwaukee Bucks unsurprisingly made changes after a first-round playoff exit, but re-signed Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez to keep the team in title contention. New head coach Adrian Griffin is known for his ability to develop talent, and the Bucks have some to work with, but their core is one of the oldest in the league. Giannis Antetokounmpo is 29 with the other three members all being 32-plus.
The Bucks must find ways to get younger if they plan to extend their championship window and keep the Greek Freak happy in Milwaukee. Even their recent additions of Jae Crowder and Robin Lopez could come back to bite them as both players are past their primes.
Can Milwaukee get younger and stay in contention before the trade deadline? It won’t be easy, especially with just one first-round draft and a couple of second-rounders to offer, but that should be the goal. Give coach Griffin a few players to develop in hopes of extending their run.
Trades Milwaukee Bucks can make to get younger but stay in title contention
5. Bucks get Kuminga
Jonathan Kuminga popped up in trade rumors this summer, but it is unclear how available he was. New general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. is open to all trade talks, except on Stephen Curry. Kuminga was mentioned, and the rumors got out, but will they trade him?
The 20-year-old slipped out of the rotation in the playoffs, but he was the seventh overall pick in 2021 for a reason. Kuminga still has immense potential as a 6’8 forward with his athletic ability is tough to find.
The Dubs have traded multiple pieces from their second timeline this summer and Kuminga could be next.
The Bucks and Warriors are both over the second tax apron, so neither team can take back more money in a trade than they send out. The salaries never match perfectly, so this deal takes a third team. San Antonio has jumped in multiple deals this summer and would love to add more assets and draft capital as they build around Victor Wembanyama.
Milwaukee trades Jae Crowder, Malik Beasley, Robin Lopez, their 2029 1st round pick, and a 2024 2nd round via Portland for Kuminga. It is a hefty price, but one that lets them get younger and gives them upside moving forward.
This deal is complicated and unlikely, but it is one way the Milwaukee Bucks can add upside to their roster.