The most prominent question mark the Milwaukee Bucks currently face is the strength of their small forward rotation. If an opportunity to beef it up presents itself, they must pounce. While it feels like it may be far-fetched, there is something brewing in Los Angeles that could allow the Bucks to pursue one of the best small forwards in the game today.
According to The Athletic's John Hollinger (subscription required), Kawhi Leonard's contract with the LA Clippers could be voided amid allegations of salary cap circumvention. That would prohibit him from re-signing with the Clippers, meaning mayhem would ensue on the free agent market as teams look to sign Leonard. Milwaukee would certainly be among those in the hunt.
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The appeal with Leonard is clear. Over the last three years since his ACL tear, he's still been one of the best small forwards in the business, averaging 23.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. Even post injury, he's been a two-way force, capable of dominating the game on both ends of the court. A a player like that could be the ultimate needle-tipper for any franchise.
The financial angle would only increase the desire.
Whether Leonard's contract got voided today or mid-season, no teams have significant cap space to lure the forward to them. The two-time NBA Finals MVP would have to settle for something cheap for the time being. That would be a dream for a team like the Milwaukee Bucks, who have very little cash but could add one of the best playoff performers in the game.
The Leonard fit isn't perfect. It would go against everything the Milwaukee Bucks have built this year in terms of relying on youth. Leonard's lengthy injury history, which included being limited to just 37 games this past season, also looms large. Given Milwaukee's recent gruesome injury woes, it would be a risk to bring him aboard, at least a little.
Still, even then, this is the type of move the Milwaukee Bucks would make without even thinking twice. Leonard would form a lethal one-two punch with Giannis Antetokounmpo on both ends. After their decision to waive and stretch Damian Lillard, the Bucks won't have ample spending money for a long, long time. A deal for Leonard on a cheap contract would be a dream come true.
For now, all the Milwaukee Bucks and the rest of the NBA can do is wait to see what the league finds in their investigation of Leonard and LA.
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