There has been chatter about the Milwaukee Bucks canvassing the trade market for upgrades, but it is unclear how fast they are moving. NBA insider Chris Haynes says that the Bucks and Kings haven't had concrete or serious talks about a Zach LaVine trade. Considering he has been their target with the most smoke, that could be troubling. The team might not be able to afford to wait much longer.
What the Bucks and Warriors are looking for on the trade market for @NBAonPrime. pic.twitter.com/Pl2CcXo5AV
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) December 20, 2025
Bucks could use a move to get out of this slump
Sure, it sounds like "Shiny New Toy Syndrome," but the Milwaukee Bucks need a move sooner rather than later. The writing has been on the wall for weeks that the team needs to show improvement, as Giannis Antetokounmpo ponders his future. Considering that he will be out for a few more weeks and the team is 2-9 without him this season, standing pat shouldn't be an option.
The Bucks, as constructed, have issues. Health is certainly among them, but the roster itself is also a major one. The front office clearly understands this, given all of the recent trade chatter that has hit the airwaves lately. Yes, the NBA Trade Deadline isn't until February, but the Bucks might not be able to wait that long. If there is a move that can help this team now, they need to pursue it. Fast.
The team cannot hope that Giannis' return can save them. Yes, he can undoubtedly help, but with two big injuries already hindering him this season, they need to get a piece or two who can take some of the pressure off of him consistently. If not, he will get burnt out too quickly. That's what makes the report from Chris Haynes so confusing.
Of course, the Bucks could also be keeping their trade discussions largely under wraps, using LaVine as a smokescreen. Everyone knows that Jon Horst likes to keep things quiet and then pull off a major trade no one saw coming, such as with Jrue Holiday and Damian Lillard. Perhaps he's working behind the scenes to get that done currently. At least, that would make the most sense for Horst.
It felt like the Milwaukee Bucks would act swiftly once December 15 passed, as that was the day that Bobby Portis, one of their most valuable assets, became trade-eligible. They are likely dangling him in discussions at this moment, but the fact that there have been no legitimate talks with the Kings adds a layer of uncertainty to Milwaukee's plans.
The future of the franchise's best player may be on the line, making it all the more worrisome.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.