Grade the trade: Bucks land Damian Lillard in shocking proposal
By Tyler Watts
Would the Milwaukee Bucks accept this deal?
Giannis wants the organization to prove they will do whatever it takes to improve their roster and stay in title contention. The Bucks are short on trade assets and cannot deal multiple draft picks for a star. If Milwaukee plans on upgrading, they will have to part with one of their top four players.
Damian Lillard is a top 15 talent in the world. The Bucks are not getting younger in this deal, but get an upgrade. Holiday is an elite defender and fringe All-Star. Dame is an All-NBA candidate when healthy and one of the best scorers in the world. He solves the Bucks’ late-game issues and makes Milwaukee the favorite in the Eastern Conference.
Even if it costs the Bucks Holiday, Grayson Allen, Andre Jackson Jr., and their 2029 first-round pick, they should make this trade for Damian Lillard. It could keep Giannis in Milwaukee for life and improves their title odds in 2024.
Grade: B+
This deal is far from perfect. Lillard is 33 years old and questions about the team’s future in five years still exist. Giannis wants to contend for a title for the next decade. Lillard will be 40 in 2030, but Milwaukee is in no position to be choosy. The Bucks want to improve their roster, and Damian Lillard is available. They likely do not have enough to make the trade, but they should jump at the chance despite the flaws.
Will the Milwaukee Bucks make a massive splash this season? Where does Damian Lillard end up? Training camp is just days away, and there will be plenty of drama, so stay tuned.
