3 Bucks just became even more important following trade deadline moves

These three bring a key attribute to the table whenever they play.

Milwaukee Bucks v Orlando Magic
Milwaukee Bucks v Orlando Magic | Julio Aguilar/GettyImages

The Milwaukee Bucks were very busy leading up to the 2025 NBA Trade Deadline.

Moves to bring in Kyle Kuzma, Jericho Sims and Kevin Porter Jr. signal a desire to get younger and athletic while increasing the tempo on both ends. Given how lethargic the Bucks have looked at times this season, that's not the worst idea. However, the fit with these players is far from seamless, and it largely revolves around their lack of floor spacing.

On the year, Kuzma is shooting 28.1 percent from deep. Sims has only attempted one 3-pointer in his entire four-year NBA career. Porter, while a decent shooter for his career, is sinking just 24.1 percent of his outside shots this season. The Bucks didn't bring these players in for their 3-point prowess, and the lack of spacing they provide could create some wonky lineups with Giannis Antetokounmpo.

That is why three other Milwaukee Bucks just became even more important.

The Bucks need Prince, Green and Trent more than ever

Not only have they been the best shooters on the team, but Taurean Prince (46 percent), AJ Green (43.3 percent) and Gary Trent Jr. (42.1 percent) have been some of the best outside shooters in the NBA this season. They've been spacing the floor incredibly well for this team, and that will be even more crucial now that the team has lost Khris Middleton and brought in non-shooters.

When the Milwaukee Bucks pair Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kyle Kuzma, having one or two of these players on the floor will be crucial. Otherwise, defenses can clog the lane and dare them to shoot the ball, which certainly is not their strength. Prince, Green or Trent can keep defenses on their toes by serving as a catch-and-shoot threat on the perimeter, drawing attention away from the non-shooters.

It will be interesting to see whether these roster changes force Doc Rivers to experiment with his first five as well. It seems inevitable that Kuzma will start, but can a lineup with Kuzma, Antetokounmpo and Andre Jackson Jr. work out with the lack of spacing? It wouldn't be surprising if Rivers opted to use Green or Trent at the shooting guard spot to bring more shooting to the mix straight away.

Above all else, these three role players have filled their roles very well this season, and the Bucks will need them even more post-trade deadline.

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