While things look bleak, the Milwaukee Bucks still have a shot to convince Giannis Antetokounmpo to stay in town. However, it will take a trade. A big one. Something that gives Giannis hope that this team can be competitive next season. With the recent chatter out of New Orleans, perhaps taking a swing at Trey Murphy III is the type of move that fits the billing.
Pelicans want a pick; Bucks want a star
According to HoopsHype's Michael Scotto, the Pelicans are trying to trade into the lottery, with many thinking they are targeting a player in the top-10 range. Considering Milwaukee holds the 10th overall pick, it would make sense for the two sides to be natural trade partners IF New Orleans were willing to discuss moving Trey Murphy III, who would be a great fit in Milwaukee.
Bill Simmons recently said that a Murphy trade could go down over the next few weeks on a recent episode of his podcast, so everyone is on alert. Murphy is easily one of the most attractive assets on the trade market if he is indeed available. For the Milwaukee Bucks, he could be the player they need to preserve the Giannis Antetokounmpo era.
Murphy in Milwaukee would make sense
The Milwaukee Bucks have been looking for a go-to wing for years now. They have tried and tried, but to no avail. The answer could very well be a 25-year-old in New Orleans who would fit seamlessly as a new running mate for Giannis Antetokounmpo, giving him a partner who has shown glimpses of being like someone the Greek Freak knows very well, Khris Middleton.
Over the last two seasons, Murphy's star potential has gone from shining through the cracks to being on display to the entire NBA world. In that span, he's averaging 21.4 points, 5.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.5 blocks per contest while shooting 37.1 percent from deep. A player capable of that type of production could certainly be interesting to Giannis Antetokounmpo.
It might not be the sole needle-mover that convinces Giannis to stay, but trading for a potential-filled wing would be a great start. The prominent question is how much the Pelicans might want for their young star. It would almost certainly take more than just the 10th pick. With several tradable salaries and a handful of picks they can move, the Bucks do indeed have solid assets.
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