Getting traded in any sport comes with challenges. However, sometimes, certain circumstances can make it easier. Ask Kel'el Ware, who was moved from the Miami Heat to the Milwaukee Bucks in what was a franchise-altering Giannis Antetokounmpo trade. Speaking to the Miami Herald (subscription required), Ware said that getting traded alongside several teammates has helped the transition.
“That helps out a lot more,” Ware said of being traded to the Bucks with Herro, Jaquez and Jakucionis. “Some guys, they get traded by themselves. So I would say it helps to have three guys with me.”
New Bucks can hit the ground running with each other
Ware, Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Kasparas Jakucionis will all have to learn a new system and their new Bucks teammates, but they can do it together. They all have pre-established chemistry from their time together with the Heat. It might not seem like much, but going into a new facility with players you are already familiar with can certainly help make a player feel more at ease.
This quartet started building something with the Heat, and now, they want to continue it with the Milwaukee Bucks. Chemistry-wise, they've remained strong, hanging out together at Summer League while also meeting up with some of their new teammates. A recent picture from the Bucks shows Ware, Herro, and Jaquez with fellow Bucks youngsters Ryan Rollins and Ousmane Dieng.
You love to see it.
Courtside hoopers. pic.twitter.com/yHAtqOin1I
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) July 10, 2026
Transition will help players capitalize on golden opportunities
Being traded is usually enough for a player to gain a chip on their shoulder, but it feels like all four of the players who were dealt to Milwaukee had massive ones already.
In the eyes of many, Herro isn't a winning player who can't be a top option. He's also due for a contract extension. That second sentiment also holds true for Jaquez, who is currently on an expiring deal at the time of this writing. Ware never played a significant role for the Heat. Jakucionis is a young player still looking to prove he belongs at this level.
In Milwaukee, all four players have something to prove and/or gain, and they can all help each other get to that mountaintop together. Had they all been traded elsewhere individually, they would have the opportunity to prove themselves, but they wouldn't have that built-in support system that they are set to have with the Milwaukee Bucks.
That's an advantage that could quietly be a massive boost for the Bucks this coming season. It all sounds good on paper, but it's up to these four to live up to lofty expectations in Milwaukee.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.
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