6 trades the Milwaukee Bucks could pull off before the deadline

The Milwaukee Bucks once again need to land a player like P.J. Tucker. Tucker came to the Milwaukee Bucks at the trade deadline last season. He was instrumental in helping the Bucks win the title by chasing around Kevin Durant or Devin Booker.

That allowed Khris Middleton, Jrue Holiday, and Giannis Antetokounmpo to not have to spend so much energy on defense, thus not sapping their legs on offense to be more effective scorers.

Harrison Barnes’ cap hit is too high, so do not expect that move to be made.

While it will be hard to make that move again, there are a few teams the Bucks could call to bolster the defense.

Milwaukee Bucks Trade scenario one

The Bucks get another veteran who has stuck around the league doing the dirty work. He can guard and hit a three when needed. The Pelicans get to see if Donte can be part of their future core.

This may favor the Pelicans if Donte finds himself in New Orleans long-term. Right now, these trades are about findings a player to help win a second ring. If the playoffs started tomorrow, DiVincenzo might not be in the playing rotation.

Trade scenario two

Both teams were hoping to get better defensive contributions out of these two. So far, it has not worked out. The LA Lakers team chemistry is a mess. So a change in teams might be what Bazemore needs to bring back that defensive intensity he has a reputation for.

If you prefer another player from the Western Conference, bringing back Tony Snell from Portland could work. Larry Nance Jr. is probably out of the Bucks’ reach as the Bulls can outbid them.

Trade scenario three

This would be the blockbuster the Bucks would have to pull off to get a plus defender. Caldwell-Pope can score. The Milwaukee Bucks would have to give up five players to make the salaries match as Caldwell-Pope is a $13 million cap hit.

The Milwaukee Bucks cannot make a deal work that involves Caldwell-Pope and Harrell together, as the Bucks do not have the assets or the contracts to move. It would have to be one or the other if the Wizards entertained dealing with the Bucks. This would be a great acquisition for Milwaukee but one that cost the Bucks some depth.

A chance at second ring might be worth it, and Caldwell-Pope could help bring that.