With a clear need for youth, many fans have pitched the idea of the Milwaukee Bucks swapping out their 2031 first round pick for multiple firsts in the 2025 NBA Draft. To maximize the current roster with a pair of potential-filled prospects, it would make sense, but given their recent track record, Milwaukee relying on a pair of rookies certainly seems too far-fetched to risk it.
The Bucks relying on two rookies would be a big change of pace
Our own Nathan Marzion started the chatter by highlighting the need for young talent and how this class is full of it. Marzion later posted a poll asking if Bucks fans would accept a trade involving the 2031 first-round pick in exchange for picks 15 and 24 in this upcoming draft. Of 2,751 Bucks fans, 66.2 percent voted yes. On paper, it's enticing. In execution, it's likely much harder.
To truly justify trading the 2031 first, one of the most desirable assets in the entire NBA as teams hope Giannis Antetokounmpo requests a trade, they actually have to play a meaningful role. Would Doc Rivers shatter the narrative that he doesn't play rookies? Could Jon Horst overcome his poor draft record and add actual help? These are major question marks.
The proof is right there. The Milwaukee Bucks had a pair of rookies, picks 24 and 33, from last year's draft class, and neither played a prominent role. AJ Johnson didn't even make it through the entire season, while Tyler Smith was a spectator despite Milwaukee's recurring frontcourt issues. It was clear that Doc Rivers relied on youth somewhat, but the rookies were not on the table.
It's also tough to justify Horst's draft record. The moves have had potential, but very few of them have come close to panning out. Trading such a gaudy pick and then drafting two misses could be the final nail in the coffin for this iteration of the Milwaukee Bucks.
While it would be a big gamble, the Milwaukee Bucks could absolutely benefit from it. The new CBA has contenders in a crunch with roster building, so teams need to hit on their low-cost draft choices to survive. If Milwaukee could develop a pair of win-now contributors who actually help, it could be the shot in the arm this team needs to leap back into legitimate title contention.
With countless roster question marks, such as Kevin Porter Jr. getting ready to opt out of his player option and Milwaukee being likely to part ways with Brook Lopez, this team could satiate its need for young help in the draft if they hit on the picks. In all likelihood, the Milwaukee Bucks won't go for this approach, opting to keep their incredibly valuable 2031 first-rounder, but it's worth discussing.
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