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Fact or fiction: 11 trade targets for Milwaukee Bucks to replace Brook Lopez

By Brian Sampson

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - NOVEMBER 17: Brook Lopez #11 of the Milwaukee Bucks walks to the bench prior to a game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Fiserv Forum on November 17, 2021 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - NOVEMBER 17: Brook Lopez #11 of the Milwaukee Bucks walks to the bench prior to a game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Fiserv Forum on November 17, 2021 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /
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MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – OCTOBER 19: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks is fouled by Nicolas Claxton #33 of the Brooklyn Nets during the first half of the season opener at the Fiserv Forum on October 19, 2021 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – OCTOBER 19: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks is fouled by Nicolas Claxton #33 of the Brooklyn Nets during the first half of the season opener at the Fiserv Forum on October 19, 2021 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /

Fact or fiction: Derrick Favors

Derrick Favors is one of the only veterans on the rebuilding Oklahoma City Thunder which naturally makes him a trade candidate near the deadline. He’s played in 18 games this season, starting 8, at averages 5.9 points and 5.2 rebounds over 16.7 minutes per game. He’s not nearly the same dude he was in his prime and is probably a bit undersized for what the Bucks are looking for. His $9.7 million salary this year and the money he’s owed next season would likely be the biggest barrier to any deal.

Verdict: Fiction

Fact or fiction: Nicolas Claxton

I took some flak for suggesting the Bucks target Nets’ big man Nicolas Claxton. Claxton is an intriguing and athletic big man with potential, but he’s buried on Brooklyn’s bench at this point. He’s not as strong as Milwaukee would prefer but he’s long and brings good defensive energy. Unfortunately, Milwaukee isn’t in the position to take on young, raw prospects plus the fact these two teams probably wouldn’t be able to come to terms on a deal even if Claxton’s salary is ideal.

Verdict: Fiction

Fact or fiction: Dwight Powell

What the heck is going on in Dallas? The Mavericks hired Jason Kidd as head coach and it’s all gone downhill from there. Powell would be an interesting trade piece for the Bucks and the Mavs are loaded at the center position. A deal, however, is very unlikely considering he’s owed $11.08 million this season and in 2022-23 as well. The Bucks are looking for a very specific salary range and Powell doesn’t fit in it.

Verdict: Fiction

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