NBA Rumors: Bucks 'Determined' to Make Trade to Enhance Roster Around Giannis, Dame

The Milwaukee Bucks have come a long way from their disastrous start to the 2024-25 season, but they're reportedly set on making a splash at the trade deadline to bolster their roster.

Per NBA insider Marc Stein, the Bucks are "as determined as any team on the NBA map" to make at least one trade before the deadline, which is just over a week away. One such deal could be for the Miami Heat's disgruntled star Jimmy Butler, who requested a trade earlier this month.

Stein noted that to combine contracts in an offer for Butler—or any player—Milwaukee would first have to shed Pat Connaughton's three-year, $28.271 million contract. Getting rid of Connaughton's contract could be achievable in a trade for Butler if the Heat want it.

It's also worth noting that the only pick the Bucks can trade is their 2031 first-rounder.

The Bucks also have two players that would likely be appealing to Miami in Khris Middleton and Bobby Portis. The Heat are on the brink of playoff contention and could likely stay in the postseason race with Middleton and Portis on the roster.

Even if Milwaukee can't make a move as extreme as landing Butler, there are a number of players that could help turn the Bucks into more of a championship contender. Whether they will go all in for Butler or pivot to other options remains to be seen.

The Bucks are currently in fourth place in the Eastern Conference at 26-18.

Milwaukee's success can mostly be attributed to the play of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard this year. Antetokounmpo is playing at an MVP level, putting up 31.5 points, 12.2 rebounds and 5.9 assists while Lillard has had his usual offensive production, averaging 25.5 points and 7.3 assists per game.

From there, the Bucks don't have too many offensive options, so adding a scoring threat could be a priority before the deadline.