2016 NBA Trade Deadline Grades For All 30 Teams
Milwaukee Bucks
A year ago, the Milwaukee Bucks began their decent back to the NBA Draft Lottery by trading Brandon Knight in a three-team deal for Michael Carter-Williams, which eventually led to the summer signing of Greg Monroe. Both players and their impact on the team have been underwhelming, but the Bucks were ultimately unable to move either of them.
According to ESPN’s Marc Stein, the Bucks were close to putting together something for Dwight Howard, whose refusal to opt into the final year and $23.3 million of his contract kamikaze-d the deal.
ESPN sources say Milwaukee made offer for Dwight Howard but talks broke down in part because Howard wouldn't opt into final year of contract
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 18, 2016
Working out a D-12 deal would have unequivocally involved Greg Monroe, a player who was engulfed in swirling trade rumors leading up to the deadline. The gut-wrenching disappointment continued once Ricky Rubio’s name came up, but to no avail:
ESPN sources say Minnesota and Milwaukee engaged in fresh Ricky Rubio trade talks today but couldn't find common ground on a deal structure
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 18, 2016
Other than that, it was mostly Miles Plumlee becoming a necessary part of the rotation:
Miles Plumlee was first player Bucks made available via trade this season but now it appears they need to keep him with John Henson ailing
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 18, 2016
And vomit-inducing Kendall Marshall speculation.
Sources: As Bucks search for ways to reshape guard depth, they've checked on bringing back 76ers Kendall Marshall. For now, no traction.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 18, 2016
So yeah, probably not the trade deadline Milwaukee had in mind.
Grade: D+
Next: Minnesota Timberwolves