Rumor roundup for the Milwaukee Bucks on the eve of the 2024 NBA Trade Deadline
By Dalton Sell
The Bucks are looking at a pair of Nets
The New York Post's Brian Lewis (subscription required) states that the Bucks have interest in both Dorian Finney-Smith and Royce O'Neale of the Brooklyn Nets. Both make plenty of sense, as they're versatile defenders with experience who could make this team much more formidable, patching up a major flaw on the perimeter.
It's no secret that the Nets have a steep asking price for the pair, as they are unlikely to pick up the phone unless first-rounders are involved, especially with Finney-Smith. SNY's Ian Begley reported Tuesday that the Bucks' interest in Finney-Smith is "strong," which is perhaps why they contacted OKC and New Orleans about trying to acquire a first.
Bucks eyeing an NBA champion wing defender
As mentioned in one of the previously-mentioned articles by Fischer, Andrew Wiggins is a player the Milwaukee Bucks and Dallas Mavericks are keeping an eye on. Bucks fans have had their eyes on the forward for quite some time, and it's largely due to his ability to serve as a high-end, versatile wing defender who has helped a team win it all before.
Due to his salary, the Bucks would have to trade both Portis and Connaughton to take back Wiggins. Fans can debate whether or not that is worth it, especially with Wiggins having a down year. However, if they are unable to get top defenders like Finney-Smith or O'Neale, it might be worth the gamble to bring in an established wing defender. A change of scenery could do him good.