Damian Lillard is traded by the Milwaukee Bucks to the San Antonio Spurs in a crazy trade that involves a huge haul.

Damian Lillard is traded by the Milwaukee Bucks to the San Antonio Spurs in a crazy trade that involves a huge haul.

The Milwaukee Bucks did not even come close to reaching their own expectations heading into the 2023–24 NBA season. The Bucks were expected to return to the NBA Finals after they fired head coach Mike Budenholzer, hired Adrian Griffin, traded Jrue Holiday for Damian Lillard, and promoted Holiday. Rather, they once again had to make do with a series loss in the first round.

Naturally, their dismal season had numerous causes. Milwaukee dismissed Griffin halfway through the season because they thought he was not performing well enough, despite his 30-point record. Fearing an injury prior to being moved, Lillard did not train out over the offseason, which left him out of shape all season.

Of course, a big factor in their disappointing season finale was Giannis Antetokounmpo’s injury just before the NBA Playoffs, which prevented him from playing in the whole series against the Indiana Pacers.

Trade Rumors Involving Milwaukee Bucks Point Guard Damian Lillard Have Already Begun

Jan. 27, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA: In the second half at Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) drives to the hoop against the New Orleans Pelicans. Mandatory Photo courtesy of USA TODAY Sports’ Michael McLoone

Many of these spur-of-the-moment trade offers in the past have revolved around Giannis Antetokounmpo. Now that Lillard has been moved already, a lot of them are concentrating on him.

The Bucks, however, would get a high price in exchange for Lillard. Rising sensation Keldon Johnson provided instant offensive firepower and defensive prowess, averaging 15.7 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.

“Jeremy Sochan has flexible defense and the potential to be a vital rotational player, while Devonte’ Graham offers seasoned guard experience. Milwaukee now has tremendous assets to rebuild or make future smart moves to strengthen their squad around Giannis Antetokounmpo, thanks to the addition of the No. 4 and No. 8 selections in 2024.