The case for and against the Milwaukee Bucks trading their 2024 NBA Draft picks

Decision: Should the Milwaukee Bucks trade their picks?

In short, it is pretty understandable to be on either side of this debate. There are several legitimate reasons the Milwaukee Bucks could use their picks, and there are also obvious reasons they could look to trade them. Plus, they also could trade one pick and keep another.

The return that the Milwaukee Bucks are able to get in a trade is surely going to be a factor, as Jon Horst is not going to trade picks if he isn't getting anything of value back. However, it is reasonable to assume that the Bucks could get at least one playoff-caliber rotation player by attaching picks to any of their bench guys (Bobby Portis, Pat Connaughton, MarJon Beauchamp, etc.), and if that is the case, they should be trading the picks.

Ultimately, history has shown that it is very unlikely that the Milwaukee Bucks will find impactful players with these picks. That is just the reality of the NBA Draft. And in one of the weaker draft classes in recent memory, it is probably even more unlikely than usual.

Milwaukee needs to become as good as possible for the 2024-25 season. That is their mission as they try to win another championship with this aging core. It is very wishful thinking, especially with Doc Rivers as coach, to believe that rookies drafted outside of the top 20 will make meaningful contributions in their first season. So, the Milwaukee Bucks should be looking to trade these assets to help the team right now.

Many fans have become infatuated with youth and developing young talent, but the Bucks just are not in a position to be focused on that. They should continue to acquire more proven players (who hopefully are not too old or unathletic) who can help the team win a championship right away.

Being short-sighted is a requirement when you have a duo as good as Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. All that matters is right now, and the Milwaukee Bucks should continue to manage their assets with that mindset.