7 Sleeper trade targets for the Bucks to pursue this offseason

2. Nick Richards

The Hornets are still rebuilding, but appear to have found their center of the present and future in Mark Williams. He fits next to LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller but leaves questions about the role for Richards. The 26-year-old was in trade rumors before the deadline and is under contract for two more years at just $5 million per season. Does Charlotte keep him as their backup center or trade him for someone who can make a larger impact?

The Bucks need a backup big man behind Brook Lopez, and the 36-year-old will not be elite forever. Richards could give Milwaukee a strong backup next season and someone capable of taking over as their starter in the 2025-26 campaign.

Richards averaged 1.37 points per possession as a roll man this season, which was fifth-best in the NBA among players with at least 100 possessions. The seven-footer put up 9.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks in 26.3 minutes per game. He is ready for his first shot at playing for a contender and could make a significant impact on both ends of the floor.

The Milwaukee Bucks need another rim protector and defensive anchor on their roster. Nick Richards may be able to fill that role, especially after a season of learning from Brook Lopez and Giannis Antetokounmpo in the Cream City.