There isn't much reason for optimism in Milwaukee right now, and we're not talking about the Brewers trading away their All-Star right-hander. The Milwaukee Bucks are now 18-25 on the season following a beatdown at the hands of the OKC Thunder. With their playoff hopes on life support, they may make a desperate last-ditch effort in the coming weeks. Here are a few options.
Bucks go all-in on Morant after KPJ injury
With a lackluster market, Ja Morant isn't going to fetch much if the Grizzlies do indeed decide to deal him. The Bucks, who lack star power outside of Giannis Antetokounmpo, have registered an interest in trading for the star guard, perhaps thinking that getting the Greek Freak a true No. 2 option could give this team life.
Kevin Porter Jr. is slated to miss an undisclosed amount of time with an oblique injury, so it wouldn't be too shocking if Milwaukee's interest in Morant, another ball-handler, shot up. Milwaukee needs a player who can alleviate some of the offensive workload off of Giannis' shoulders, and Morant may be the most enticing name on the market at the moment.
Bucks finally land a small forward in deal with Nets
Michael Porter Jr. is arguably the most in-demand name on the trade market, as he could be a major difference-maker for any squad. For Milwaukee, he'd give them a certified shot-maker who can shoot the ball better than almost anyone. Given how poorly Milwaukee's offense has played, it wouldn't hurt to get another scorer in Cam Thomas.
The primary question mark in any Michael Porter Jr. deal is whether the Bucks would be willing to move either of their first-round picks. As two of the most coveted assets around the NBA, the value of those selections will only increase, especially if Giannis Antetokounmpo's trade stance changes anytime in the near future. It would be a bold move, but that's what the Bucks are all about.
Bucks add a pair of big name guards
Again, the Milwaukee Bucks need scoring. LaVine might not do much else, but he can certainly score the basketball at will. Even in a down year, he's averaging nearly 20 points per game while shooting a tick below 40 percent from deep. He could be Milwaukee's true No. 2. With Porter hurt, Westbrook could give the team needed support off the bench as a scorer, facilitator, and rebounder.
As for the Kings, they get a lot of money off their books in this deal, but the true prize for them may be Kyle Kuzma. For years, Sacramento has reportedly held the forward in high regard. With an interest in moving LaVine, this could be the year they finally get Kuzma in purple, as the Bucks appear to be the only team showing interest in Sacramento's star guard at the moment.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.