The Milwaukee Bucks have lacked a true small forward all season, and the New Orleans Pelicans may be able to lend a helping hand. Per NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Pelicans have been willing to at least listen to offers on Trey Murphy III and Herb Jones, two wings who could ignite a big trade bidding war if they became available.
Bucks need a small forward, and the Pelicans may hold the keys
Either player could do so much for the Milwaukee Bucks, who currently find themselves stuck in the mud at 10-15 on the year.
Murphy, who really burst onto the scene last year, is having another tremendous season, averaging 20.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. Giannis Antetokounmpo has carried Milwaukee's offense for most of the season, making it clear that this team could use another scorer and passer. While Kevin Porter Jr. has helped in that regard, Murphy could take it a step further.
Jones, meanwhile, could be exactly what the Bucks need in terms of a defensive-minded wing. Due to a lack of size, AJ Green and Gary Trent Jr. have been forced to defend bigger players, often leading to mismatches. Having an All-Defensive honoree who is a natural small forward take on that role could lead to a needed defensive resurrection by this team.
One problem with Jones is that he's not eligible to be traded until January 14. For a Bucks team that needs a move sooner rather than later, especially with Giannis out for the next month or so, that could be too little too late for Milwaukee. Perhaps that would make them more inclined to ignite an all-out push to get Murphy instead.
One of these players could help the Milwaukee Bucks mightily. As Giannis Antetokounmpo's future in Milwaukee remains up in the air, a move like this could reiterate the team's stance on committing to a winning culture. Given that it would likely take all of the assets the Bucks have left, it would be quite the gamble, but so is sitting on their hands and doing nothing.
The uncertainty with Giannis makes the Bucks a fascinating trade partner. If a team can pry a 2031 first-round pick from Milwaukee and Giannis still ends up leaving sometime soon, the value of that selection will skyrocket. The Bucks have a legitimate asset to make a splash.
The Milwaukee Bucks need to do something. Exploring Murphy and Jones could be just that.
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