The Milwaukee Bucks are not looking good; they’re in 12th place in a weak Eastern Conference, with a record of 18-29. They’ve made it known they’re shopping their franchise superstar, Giannis Antetokounmpo, as they look to finally start a new era without him.
However, what if they change their mind, and try one more time with Giannis? and Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale proposes the Bucks give a call to the Los Angeles Clippers, as their superstar James Harden is looking for a way out. Harden could be the duo Giannis needs to bring this Bucks team back to the playoffs.
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The trade would look like this:
Clippers get: Kyle Kuzma, Gary Harris, Kevin Porter Jr., 2030 first-round swap (less favorable of Milwaukee and Portland)
Bucks get: James Harden
“Yes, we know that the Bucks are currently taking calls on Giannis Antetokounmpo. But none of the rumored packages cross into can't-miss territory. So what if they pivot and try to land another star on the cheap? Harden will have to sign off on this deal. He and Giannis may also have to make nice after they exchanged not-so-flattering comments...back in 2020. This trade is otherwise worth the dice roll for Milwaukee,” Favale wrote.
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So far this season, Harden is averaging 25.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, 8.1 assists, and 1.3 assists in 35 minutes per game. He’d be basically another Damian Lillard for Antetokounmpo, except he’d be a much better playmaker, and his gravity on the perimeter would allow Antetokounmpo an easier time to drive to the basket, and vice versa.
If the Bucks really want to keep Antetokounmpo, this is probably the best way they can do it. Otherwise, their only other option is the big red button.
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