The Milwaukee Bucks are in a tough spot. After their latest defeat against the Oklahoma City Thunder, they are currently enduring a four-game losing streak. As they struggle to find consistency, the team is reportedly considering making significant roster changes to improve their depth and address their weaknesses.
Khris Middleton (Image Credit: Getty Images)
One of the most significant trade discussions involving the Bucks centers around veteran forward Khris Middleton. NBA insider Steve Bulpett reports that the Bucks are actively negotiating with the Washington Wizards to trade Khris Middleton and draft assets in exchange for Kyle Kuzma.
“Hearing from sources that Middleton from Bucks to Washington for Kuzma is getting close, as is a Wizards-Suns Valanciunas-Nurkic move,” Bulpett posted on X.
Apart from the Middleton-Kuzma swap, the Bucks are also actively exploring trade options for other key players. Reports suggest that Bobby Portis, Pat Connaughton, and MarJon Beauchamp could be on the trading block.
Will Moving From Khris Middleton Be A Good Move For The Bucks?
Since returning from injury, Khris Middleton has struggled to find his rhythm. He has played just 23 games so far, averaging 12.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. While he remains an important piece of Milwaukee’s past success, his declining production has raised concerns about his long-term fit with the team.
In contrast, Kuzma has been one of the more reliable players for the Wizards. He offers versatility, size, and scoring ability, which could give the Bucks a much-needed boost. Kuzma could complement Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard more than Middleton.
Middleton, who is earning $31.7 million this season, has two years left on his contract, including a player option worth $34 million. Moving his contract would free up cap space for Milwaukee while giving them a fresh start with a younger, more dynamic player in Kuzma.
Milwaukee Bucks Current Roster: How Does The Potential Starting Five Look After Blockbuster Kyle Kuzma Trade?
Kyle Kuzma (Photo by Jerome Miron/Imagn Images)
The NBA trade window presented itself with yet another blockbuster trade. Khris Middleton, who was a part of the Milwaukee Bucks’ roster for 12 long seasons, left the team after being traded to the Washington Wizards. In return, the Bucks acquired the services of Kyle Kuzma and Patrick Baldwin Jr. Such an addition will surely boost their championship hopes this season. After watching their top two prospects, Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, run out of partners, the franchise decided that it’s now time for a change.
With Khris Middleton injured, the authorities decided to have a blockbuster pairing to reinforce their cup hopes. Naturally, with Kyle Kuzma coming in, the fans cannot wait to see how the power trio performs. They are also eager to find out how the projected starting lineup will look for the Milwaukee Bucks following the blockbuster trade.
Projected Starting Five
Damian Lillard
Andre Jackson Jr.
Kyle Kuzma
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Brook Lopez
Key Reserves
Bobby Portis Jr.
Gary Trent Jr.
Kevin Porter Jr.
AJ Green
Taurean Prince
What Does The Kyle Kuzma Trade Mean For The Milwaukee Bucks?
Surely, the projected lineup of the Bucks is looking quite intimidating. Moreover, with Kuzma adding significant versatility to their roster, the Bucks are expected to concentrate on their defense. As for Kuzma, he is said to be having a bad year this season. Yet, Kuzma has averaged 15.2 points per game, along with 5.8 rebounds, while playing for the Wizards. However, he averaged 20 points last season.
Most importantly, Kuzma has shown enough promise to establish himself as a proper two-way forward. The 29-year-old impressed with his lockdown defense, aggressive rebounding, and scoring ability. Thus, with the Bucks looking to bank on Kyle Kuzma, things appear quite rosy at the moment. Now, it remains to be seen how things pan out for Giannis Antetokounmpo and Co. in the long run.
