Keon Ellis went from being someone every team wanted at the NBA Trade Deadline to not getting any minutes in crucial playoff games. Despite this, teams will certainly look to acquire his signature during free agency this summer, and the Milwaukee Bucks should be among them. Despite what his current situation spells, Ellis could be of great use.
Bucks should reignite Ellis interest this summer
The Milwaukee Bucks know Ellis could help them, considering they went after him this past season. Per HoopsHype insider Michael Scotto, the Bucks held conversations that would have brought Ellis and Malik Monk to Milwaukee via trade this past season. Nothing ever came of it, as Ellis was dealt to Cleveland, but that doesn't mean their pursuit must end.
Once Cleveland's season ends, Ellis will be a free agent. Given his reputation as a two-way guard with plenty of upside, he will have no shortage of suitors. Just about every team looking to make a run in 2026-27 will be looking to acquire him. If the Bucks and Giannis Antetokounmpo mend fences to give this partnership another shot, bringing in Keon Ellis would make plenty of sense.
Ellis would fit snugly with the Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks need two-way players. If you can only play on one side of the floor, you are just a liability in today's NBA. Ellis gets it done on both ends. Offensively, his best attribute is his perimeter shot, shooting 40.7 percent for his career. Defensively, he's versatile and is a pest, using that stature to average 1.2 steals during his four-year career. He does all of the little things.
If the Bucks proceed with the backcourt pairing of Kevin Porter Jr. and Ryan Rollins, which showed no shortage of potential when healthy, Ellis could be a strong third fiddle. That trio would play incredibly well off one another, providing enough defense, shooting, and passing to give Taylor Jenkins a good guard or two on the floor at all times.
The prominent question mark with Ellis is how much he might seek on the market. Currently sitting on Cleveland's bench, his value isn't increasing. If this trend continues, the guard may be forced to settle for a prove-it deal to raise his stock. That could be the perfect opportunity for the Milwaukee Bucks to swoop in and try to get the guard.
He wouldn't be the needle-mover who elevates them back into contention, but Ellis could be a useful piece to the Bucks.
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