With the Milwaukee Bucks pivoting to youth, trading Myles Turner, one of the few players on the roster in his 30s, feels like a logical step. However, after being dominated by the Washington Wizards down low in the season opener with Turner, the Bucks shouldn't be eager to move the big man just to move him, especially if no help is coming their way in return to patch the issue.
Wizards dominated Bucks at the hoop
Washington scored 70 points in the paint against Milwaukee in their season opener, with 18 coming from Anthony Davis. They simply faced little resistance whenever they set foot inside the paint, as this is a clear weak point for the Bucks. If the Milwaukee Bucks were to trade Turner, unless they get back a legitimate interior defender, it will only amplify the issue.
While the Bucks are still looking for Indiana Turner to surface, he's still a fine interior defender right at the hoop. His big frame and mobility make it difficult for opponents to score. If he exits, the roles of Kel'el Ware and Jericho Sims become that much more important. While solid players, asking them to protect the paint daily could be a risky task.
Ware has all the potential in the world to be an excellent two-way talent, but it was clear from the first game that he will need time. He fouled out in under 14 minutes. There will likely be more of that as he grows. Having Turner can help the Bucks stay afloat in those situations. If he's gone, the Bucks will be forced to turn their attention to Jericho Sims, who is useful but would be their only other center.
Teams might average 90 in the paint in that scenario.
Porzingis trade would leave Bucks vulnerable
From the moment it was announced that the Golden State Warriors were contemplating trading away Kristaps Porzingis, the Milwaukee Bucks were floated as a logical suitor. In addition to having a quality replacement in Turner, the Bucks should also be looking to hoard as many picks as possible. However, trading for Porzingis, who could retire altogether soon, would only intensify the interior issue.
If Porzingis were healthy and the Warriors were offering picks, this would be a different story, but as he battles postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, his career is in jeopardy.
For the time being, the Milwaukee Bucks will likely hang onto Turner to see how he fits with the roster. If these interior struggles persist, though, and an offer is on the table that nets Milwaukee draft picks and a serviceable big man, it could be worth exploring a shakeup down the line. For now, there likely isn't much panic from the Bucks after one game.
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