The Brooklyn Nets are resting Michael Porter Jr. for Sunday's contest against the Memphis Grizzlies. Resting a 27-year-old not dealing with a sizeable injury is certainly interesting, given all of the chatter making the rounds. Is a trade coming? The Athletic's John Hollinger (subscription required) did report that Porter is a "lock" to be dealt before the deadline, so this decision is raising eyebrows.
Milwaukee Bucks fans should keep a close eye on this situation. In recent weeks, they've been linked to Porter in trade rumors as their dire need for a small forward looms large. With just a few weeks to go before the NBA Trade Deadline, perhaps there is a sense of urgency for the Bucks to get a deal done sooner rather than later.
The Bucks will face stiff competition in Michael Porter Jr. trade talks
Having the best year of his career after being traded to the Brooklyn Nets this past summer, Porter is arguably the NBA's hottest trade target right now. Who wouldn't want a small forward averaging 25.9 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists while shooting 39.7 percent from deep? A player like that could move the needle for a lot of contending teams across the NBA, Milwaukee included.
Per NBA insider Jake Fischer (subscription required), the Bucks are indeed among the teams showing interest in the forward, but they aren't alone. The Golden State Warriors, Detroit Pistons, and Chicago Bulls are also testing the waters. That goes without mentioning all of the teams likely flying under the radar, or that will surface in the next few weeks.
If the Milwaukee Bucks want to get their hands on Michael Porter Jr., they might have to win an all-out bidding war.
How far the Bucks get in trade talks will hinge on just how willing they are to part ways with either their 2031 or 2032 first-round pick. Viewed as some of the most valuable picks around the association due to the constant uncertainty external teams see with Giannis Antetokounmpo's future, franchises will want to acquire those in any major deal with the Bucks.
Even if the Bucks are dangling either of those picks, they won't have the best package for Brooklyn. The Golden State Warriors, another team in the same boat as Milwaukee that seems desperate for an upgrade before the deadline, could go all-in and make a splash. Detroit might not want to shake up their core, but if they do, they've got the assets.
The Bucks can never be counted out in these kinds of conversations. With Michael Porter Jr. resting, perhaps an answer will come sooner rather than later.
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