5 Bucks who are expendable, 5 they can't afford to trade
By Tyler Watts
Expendable: Bobby Portis
Portis is a fan-favorite and crucial rebounder for the Bucks but presents the easiest path to the front office acquiring a needed piece. His $11.7 million salary is below the non-taxpayer mid-level exception, and Portis has a player option in 2025. His discount contract is large enough to acquire a meaningful piece, but small enough that other teams will have significant interest.
Portis brings some needed energy, scoring, and rebounding off the bench, but his minutes and production are down this season. The 6’10 big man is only playing 23.6 minutes per game and has yet to crack the starting lineup. His minutes have decreased in the playoffs in three straight years and a fourth would likely put him under 20 per game.
The 28-year-old is in the middle of his prime and could be eager to get more run. Can Milwaukee flip Bobby Portis, their young talent, and a couple of second-round picks for an impactful role-player or two? They must find the right partner, but the move could be out there.
Fans do not want to see Bobby Portis go and a trade is unlikely. His salary could put him on the block, but it would take a significant return for the franchise to send him packing.