The Milwaukee Bucks will head into the 2025-26 season in a significantly weaker state than last season. Since parting ways with Damian Lillard, the Bucks have witnessed a drastic reduction in their offensive potential.
The decision to waive Lillard created complications, as it hampered the team's backcourt rotation. While Milwaukee aimed to address this with the signings of Cole Anthony and Gary Trent Jr., it is apparent that the team needs a more capable scoring option.
The re-signing of Thanasis Antetokounmpo has guaranteed that Giannis Antetokounmpo will start the season with the team. Although this is positive, if the Bucks fail to arrange for reinforcements, the possibility of a midseason move remains on the horizon.
To address this, here's a potential trade package that would allow Milwaukee to acquire a proven scoring force to elevate its offensive production.
Proposed Trade Details
Milwaukee Bucks Receive: DeMar DeRozan
Sacramento Kings Receive: Kyle Kuzma, Chris Livingston
Acquiring DeMar DeRozan could be in Milwaukee's best interests, while also being mutually beneficial for the six-time All-Star.
DeRozan has established himself as a score-first player. Whether it's in the capacity of a guard or a forward, he has proven himself to be a capable offensive threat in various situations, although his preference for the midpost/midrange is notable.
With a cap hit of $24.7 million next season and two years left on his contract, DeRozan could be a solid fit for the Bucks.
Given the pace with which Milwaukee runs its offense, centered around Antetokounmpo, the half-court sets seem ideal for maximizing DeRozan's skill set. When additionally considering his preference for scoring in isolation, even simple offensive sets would be effective in helping him create an opportunity to score.
Last season, DeRozan made 77 appearances for the Kings, displaying durability. In this span, he posted an average of 22.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. He also recorded shooting splits of 47.7% from the field, 32.8% from three-point range, and 85.7% from the free-throw line.
While his rebounding and three-point shooting numbers are limited, his overall productivity addresses a need for the Bucks. Aside from their superstar, no Bucks player averages 20 PPG. This is a major concern for a team looking to compete in the Eastern Conference.
This trade also works for DeRozan, as it aligns with the rumors regarding a "handshake agreement" he has with the Sacramento Kings, who are expected to facilitate a trade for him. While most rumors have linked the six-time All-Star to the Heat, a move to the Bucks may still put him in a decent position to compete.
This trade works for the Bucks in other ways, too. By moving Kyle Kuzma and Chris Livingston, Milwaukee addresses a crucial issue associated with roster management.
With the re-signing of Thanasis, the Bucks will need to cut some players as they decide their final 15 guaranteed roster spots. In this regard, parting ways with two pieces on the roster would allow them to open one more space.
Parting with Kuzma also doesn't appear to be an issue for Milwaukee, given what they get in return. Although this may see the forward mentioned in poor stead, he would still generate some intrigue from Sacramento.
Kuzma is an extremely talented offensive player. Although he embraced a role for his team during his time with the Los Angeles Lakers, the 30-year-old demonstrated his ability to be a flat-out scorer with the Washington Wizards.
With the Bucks, Kuzma saw a slight return to form. Although his scoring dipped, he was a solid contributor to the team's efforts, even filling in as a starter in most games.
He recorded an average of 14.5 points and 5.6 rebounds, while shooting 45.5% from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc in Milwaukee last season. These stats could be interesting for Sacramento, as they could make use of the scoring wing as a backup for Keegan Murray.
Kuzma's versatility as an offensive player could also be worth exploring in the Kings' starting rotation. With the Jonathan Kuminga deal on hold, the Kings could pivot by acquiring the 30-year-old. Currently on a $22.4 million deal with two years left, the Kings could even look at restructuring their approach.
In this regard, the addition of Chris Livingston may not have as much of an impact on Sacramento's current rotation. With an average of 1.4 points and 1.7 rebounds in 21 games last season, the Kings may simply waive him or allow his $2.2 million minimum contract to expire at the end of the season.
Essentially, this deal would swap DeRozan for Kuzma. By parting ways with a veteran forward, the Kings acquire a younger forward with championship experience and scoring upside off the bench.
Milwaukee's Need For Reinforcements
The Milwaukee Bucks are in dire need of reinforcements heading into the new campaign. Although ensuring Antetokounmpo's position on the roster was crucial, not surrounding him with support could be counterproductive.
While the Bucks have limited trade avenues, the organization may consider making some key free agent signings. With the likes of Ben Simmons and Russell Westbrook still available on the market, Milwaukee should pursue them to improve its backcourt and overall playmaking strength.
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