Grading a compelling mock trade that sees Bucks level up their defense with Nets duo

The Milwaukee Bucks currently sit second in the Eastern Conference with a record of 25-12. Despite this, there have been struggles all season long on the defensive side of the ball, calling for changes in the roster from the fanbase as it becomes a persistent problem.

The Bucks announced recently that they waived a pair of two-way players in Lindell Wigginton and Marques Bolden, a potential sign that GM Jon Horst is willing to make moves to give his side the best chance of winning another chip.

Recently, our very own Dalton Sell proposed six mock deals that the Bucks should look at. Here, I'll grade a much-needed defensive deal with the Brooklyn Nets.

The trade between the Milwaukee Bucks and Brooklyn Nets

This trade is perfect for the Bucks in terms of pieces to acquire. Dorian Finney-Smith and Royce O'Neale are both wanted players by contenders and have been for a number of years thanks to their stellar defense and ability to hit shots from beyond the arc.

The players that the Bucks would add have been named plenty of times by fans on social media, as they know what both can bring to the table. A problem the Bucks have faced is finding the assets to make deals due to the abundance of first-round picks used in trades in recent years to maintain the years of success.

In terms of what the Bucks give up here, all three players are having down years by their standards. Sophomore MarJon Beauchamp was a huge positive last seen, and many hoped he would make a big jump this year, but he has struggled to really hold down his place in the rotation.

Bobby Portis would be a big loss off the bench, but both Finney-Smith and O'Neale can shoot and add that point-of-attack defender the Bucks have been crying out for, especially with Jae Crowder still sidelined.

With the details out of the way, let’s take a closer look.