The Milwaukee Bucks have made it clear that they are not interested in trading either Giannis Antetokounmpo or Damian Lillard, despite the team struggling with a 2-8 start to the season.
Antetokounmpo’s value to the team is undeniable, and he remains one of the most dominant players in the league.
While Lillard’s trade value may not be as high as it was when he was traded from the Portland Trail Blazers in 2023, he would still likely have potential suitors in the market.
“I was talking to people in the league about the Bucks and I started hearing from people who were saying to me, ‘You know the Bucks called us about trades,’” said Brian Windhorst on Monday’s episode of ESPN’s Hoop Collective.
This comment suggests the Bucks are actively looking to make moves, but not with their stars at the forefront of the conversation.
“‘And I go about who?’
“‘Not Giannis and not Dame,’” Windhorst relayed, quoting the response from an NBA executive, highlighting the Bucks’ commitment to keeping their core intact despite the rough start to the season.
Windhorst further elaborated that during a phone conversation with one executive, he was interrupted by a call from the Bucks, signaling the team’s ongoing efforts to explore trade possibilities – though not involving their two biggest stars.
“Not Dame is interesting,” said Tim MacMahon. “And I wonder, and this is just a pure hypothetical: I wonder if they put Dame on the market, how much interest there would be?”
Windhorst confidently replied, “There would be interest, sir,” acknowledging that despite Lillard’s struggles early in the season, his name still carries significant weight in the league and could draw attention from other teams in need of a star player.
Lillard, who is signed through the 2026-27 season with a player option for 2026, represents a unique challenge in any trade discussions due to his sizable contract.
The size of his deal would create significant complications in any potential in-season trade, especially with salary cap limitations that could make a deal more difficult to execute.
Still, the Bucks’ willingness to explore options could signal that they’re looking for ways to shake up the roster to improve their performance, even if it doesn’t involve trading their two stars.
While Antetokounmpo and Lillard are key to the team’s championship aspirations, the Bucks may eventually consider other trade avenues or adjustments to salvage their season.
However, for now, the focus seems to be on supporting their current roster rather than parting with their cornerstone players.
Bucks Haven’t Discussed Damian Lillard Trade https://t.co/knIUlJpuAP
— RealGM (@RealGM) November 11, 2024
