As soon as rumors surfaced that the Golden State Warriors were looking into trading All-Star center Kristaps Porzingis, the Milwaukee Bucks made sense as a suitor. However, The Athletic's Sam Amick and Nick Friedell (subscription required) report that the Bucks have been contacted by the Warriors regarding a deal and have no interest. If the Warriors add draft capital, perhaps that could change.
Turner-Porzingis swap has its benefits
With Porzingis reportedly contemplating his basketball future, as ESPN's Shams Charania reports the star big man could retire altogether as he battles postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, it makes sense for the Warriors to move him. The Bucks would likely be a dream partner for Golden State if veteran center Myles Turner were on the table.
Despite coming off a down year, Turner is productive and just turned 30. He'd be a seamless fit with the Warriors on both ends, providing quality floor spacing offensively while also being a deterrent for opponents at the hoop. As the Warriors look to maximize the rest of Stephen Curry's prime, a trade like this makes all the sense in the world.
Of course, the Milwaukee Bucks won't just help them to be nice. As they look to establish a foundation in the post-Giannis Antetokounmpo era, the Bucks should be seeking as many draft picks as they can get their hands on. If the Warriors are willing to offer up some capital, starting with a first round pick at the bare minimum, Milwaukee should at least listen.
Bucks seemingly want to keep Turner
While Turner wasn't directly mentioned in The Athletic's report, it feels like a long shot that Golden State would call the Bucks about anyone else to fill their center void. Despite Turner being one of the oldest players on the roster in this new iteration of the young Bucks, Milwaukee seemingly wants to keep the big man on the payroll.
To a degree, that makes sense. Turner's leadership has stood out leading up to the new NBA season, particularly as he orchestrated a team-bonding trip to Texas. With all of his experience, he can be the man who sets the tone for the Bucks every night. Having him around to help develop Kel'el Ware can also be a bonus.
Yet, they also have to think about how compelling it would be to add a potential pick from the Warriors in the post-Stephen Curry era. Getting off Turner's contract and taking on Porzingis, who is on what is basically an expiring contract, has to be somewhat intriguing as well. For now, it appears the Bucks are not interested. Golden State, throw some eye-catching draft capital on the table.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.
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