The Brook Lopez trade the Bucks must make to save their season

The Milwaukee Bucks are 1-6 and tied for the worst record in the NBA in early November. This was supposed to be a team competing for a championship with two superstars, but they are littered with problems. Brook Lopez is struggling and history is against them even making the playoffs. It is already time to get desperate.

The Bucks' issues will not be fixed by the status quo. They look old and slow. Head coach Doc Rivers refuses to play his young talent, so the team lacks upside. It has Milwaukee exploring the trade market, and they must move a key piece to get enough back to make a significant leap.

The second apron penalties restrict the franchise’s movement. They should be looking for a deal where they can get multiple pieces, but it will cost them Lopez. It is time to be bold. This trade could sort out some key issues for the Bucks in a pressure-packed season.

Trading Brook Lopez to Houston could save the Bucks' season

Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard must do it all for Milwaukee right now. Lopez is the only other player averaging more than ten points per game. They are struggling to hit shots and get stops. The Bucks need someone capable of guarding multiple positions and some young talent capable of providing more than Milwaukee pays for.

They have just one tradable first-round draft pick, but it has significant value because of their uncertain future. If it means keeping Giannis, the Bucks must go all-in. This three-team deal could offer Milwaukee what they are looking for.

Dorian Finney-Smith is a strong 3-and-D wing capable of guarding multiple positions and sinking open looks. He could stop penetration and give the Bucks someone to put on the opposition’s top scorer.

Cam Whitmore is a bucket-getter playing just 11 minutes per game on a deep Rockets squad. The move to Milwaukee could solidify his role and create a few more opportunities. Whitmore is not an elite defender, but he is 6’7 and athletic.

Noah Clowney gives the Bucks a young big man with floor spacing and rim protection potential. He is only 20 years old, but Rivers would only have Giannis, Bobby Portis, and Clowney to use at the five. This is a gamble for Milwaukee. Clowney thriving in a larger role is no guarantee, but the Nets are committed to Nicolas Claxton and should look to add draft capital as they enter a rebuild.

The Bucks need Khris Middleton to get healthy, but he is not saving their season. The 33-year-old is no guarantee to stay on the court and lacks the same impact he had during their 2021 championship run. Middleton will help, but the franchise needs more.

The Milwaukee Bucks cannot be afraid to be bold if they want to return to contention. They must upgrade if they want to keep Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard on their franchise. There is no perfect move because of the second apron restrictions, so this is the best they can do. Is it enough? The Bucks should try to find out before it is too late.