Once upon a time, the Milwaukee Bucks were on Anthony Davis' list of preferred trade destinations. When he was previously employed by The Athletic, Shams Charania reported that the Bucks, Knicks, Lakers, and Clippers were teams Davis would have signed with long-term when he was on the outs with the New Orleans Pelicans in 2019. It's been a long time since then, but with Davis rumored to be available and the Bucks interested, one has to wonder if Davis' stance still holds true.
Davis had interest in Bucks, who now are interested in him
Nearly six years after Davis' representatives named Milwaukee as a desirable destination, the Bucks are rumored to be interested in the All-Star big man. The Athletic's Christian Clark and Sam Amick (subscription required) reported that the Bucks are among teams showing interest, and although a deal seems unlikely, nothing can be ruled out at this point.
One has to wonder if Davis's stance holds true to this day. Sure, things are a lot different, as the Bucks are no longer the up-and-coming exciting squad that they were back then, but the most important piece of the puzzle remains: Giannis Antetokounmpo. Even with all of the turbulence Milwaukee has faced in recent seasons, Davis would still have the chance to join forces with a superstar.
Ultimately, it may come down to the same reason Davis had the Bucks on his list of preferred teams back in 2019, and that's who may be willing to offer him a new contract. This coming summer, Davis will become eligible for a massive extension, and he will certainly be looking to get that from anyone with interest in him.
Of course, things are a bit different now. Davis hasn't requested a trade from Dallas as he did from New Orleans back then. Anyone who trades for him won't have to immediately guarantee him a new deal. However, that's certainly something that will surface in discussions this coming summer, which could make him a risky target for any interested suitor.
Only time will tell if the Anthony Davis chatter to Milwaukee picks up. Right now, the Atlanta Hawks feel like the favorite for the big man, especially after moving off of Trae Young. They have far more assets than the Milwaukee Bucks, who also don't have a ton of flexibility salary-wise, can offer. Yet, where Anthony Davis wants to go could always factor into things.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.