After a successful offseason of rebuilding trades to add more young talent and draft assets, the Bucks' next focus will likely be getting assets for veterans on the team like Tyler Herro. However, Herro's appeal on the trade market could be undercut by his former Heat teammate Norman Powell, who signed a 2-year/$45 million with the Bulls this offseason. Powell offers much of the same elite shooting and tough shot-making as Herro, but at a cheaper price compared to Herro's $33 million price tag next season.
Powell makes more sense financially for most suitors
Both Herro and Powell recently made All-Star games for the Heat, but competing teams could covet Powell more highly for his cheaper contract and more financial certainty. Since Powell is at least under contract for 2 seasons, a potential trade partner wouldn't have to immediately worry about extending him on more money. In contrast, Herro will likely seek out a pay raise for his next deal, either from the Bucks or any team interested in trading for him.
Herro can definitely raise his trade value with strong performances for the Bucks to begin the season, but his reputation around the league is mostly set after 7 seasons in Miami. Like Powell, Herro is considered an undersized shooting guard capable of hitting tough shots and a high percentage from three. However, neither are natural playmakers or strong defenders, limiting their overall value.
Even as general scorers and offensive talents, Herro and Powell are very similar. Both have shot near 40% from three over their entire careers and put up similar numbers in recent seasons. Herro has put up around 20 points per game in each of the last 5 seasons, with the exception of his All-Star appearance in 2025 when he averaged 24 per game. Powell has averaged about 22 points per game in each of the last 2 seasons.
Herro could still play his way into being a trade target
For now, most contending teams in need of more shot creation would probably prefer to trade for Powell. On top of being cheaper, he's also a more sturdy defender and a veteran capable of adapting to different situations. Herro's trade value will be determined by his play on a new team, especially in high-profile matchups like his revenge game against the Heat.
The Bucks will definitely hope for Herro to prove analysts wrong and exceed expectations. He's unlikely to feature in their long-term plans since they are just now beginning a rebuild and Herro is almost 27. But getting a good trade package for Herro will vindicate Milwaukee's decision to finally pull the trigger on sending Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Heat.
Herro will get the opportunity to play in a starring role on the Bucks and change his public perception almost immediately. Even if the Bucks aren't competitive right away, he should know that he's also playing for a chance to join a contender if one is impressed enough to trade for him.
