Grading a mock trade that gives the Milwaukee Bucks a top target and NBA champion

The Doc Rivers era with the Milwaukee Bucks has gotten off to a somewhat slow start, but that is to be expected as he and his new staff look to embed their philosophies on the team. In his first two games, the Bucks have given up 113 and 119 points, which is just under their 120 point average on the season.

It is well known that the Bucks have struggled all season defensively, whether that be down to the schemes run by previous head coach Adrian Griffin or the personnel on the roster. Milwaukee is still the second seed in the East with a 32-16 record, but the teams behind them are closing the gap with the Knicks and Cavaliers both within two games, having won nine of their last 10 games.

With this in mind, the Bucks can't spend too long getting to grips with Rivers' coaching, especially if they want to remain a top seed and go win a title. Our very own Dalton Sell proposed five trades the Bucks should look at heading into the trade deadline. Here, we look at what it might cost to add one of the top targets and former NBA champion to the roster.

The mock trade between the Milwaukee Bucks and Toronto Raptors

Bruce Brown was a huge part of the Denver Nuggets championship-winning side last season and both in the offseason and now mid-season is one of the top trade targets for contenders having shown what he can do. He is a good scorer from all levels, solid rebounder and most importantly a good defender.

Brown is a strong point of attack defender and that is what the Bucks have lacked at times this season. Damian Lillard has not been bad defensively this season but we know it is not one of his strong suits and he is required to have a bigger impact on the offense. Malik Beasley also isn't the strongest of defenders and so having someone like Brown to take on the tougher defensive assignments will aid the Bucks and is exactly what they need.

He is currently making $22 million this year and has a club option for $23 million next season. This means the Bucks would have to give up a fair amount in order to match the contract. Bobby Portis and Pat Connaughton are the only real way to make the money match.

With the details out of the way, let's take a closer look at the deal and what it may mean for both teams.