The Milwaukee Bucks might need to sever connections with a key player in their frontcourt.
With superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo emphasizing that the goal this season is to win a championship, revamping the roster seems essential. Veteran center Brook Lopez is entering his seventh year with the team, but his time in Milwaukee could end at the NBA trade deadline.
Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes recently suggested that the Bucks might trade the $48 million center to the New Orleans Pelicans.
“The [Myles] Turner discussion is relevant here. Lopez provides similar spacing but superior interior defense. At 36, he may not have many productive years left,” Hughes stated. “However, he has previously anchored championship defenses and has only missed seven games in the last two seasons. If the Bucks struggle, New Orleans should pursue Lopez.”
Hughes also identified Indiana Pacers’ Turner and Portland Trail Blazers’ Robert Williams III as other trade targets for the Pelicans. With New Orleans considering a potential small-ball lineup featuring Zion Williamson and recently extended Trey Murphy, adding size is a sensible move. At 7-foot-1 and 282 pounds, Lopez fits that need for the Pelicans.
On the other hand, the Bucks could increase the role of 29-year-old stretch big man Bobby Portis, who could excel alongside Antetokounmpo. While their defense might suffer, the trade-off could be worthwhile for Portis’ shooting and agility.