Milwaukee Bucks: Ranking trade chips heading into the offseason

After unraveling against the Miami Heat in the playoffs, the Milwaukee Bucks need to push their trade chips to the middle of the table this offseason.

To save themselves from losing their best player in decades, the Milwaukee Bucks need to insert themselves into trade conversations. Though official reporting is scarce, there’s been a general expectation amongst NBA writers and analysts that Milwaukee could be a suitor for either Chris Paul or Jrue Holiday — defensive-minded guards who can shoot the 3-ball and run some offense.

They could pivot and swing for a noteworthy big or forward. To do that, the Bucks’ front office needs to push their chips to the center of the table. Losing Giannis Antetokounmpo would be catastrophic for Milwaukee’s hopes at building a contender. A team with Khris Middleton as its go-to scorer isn’t one with a chance to compete for a title, so nothing is too drastic during the offseason.

Though it’s unlikely he’ll be dealt this offseason, Washington Wizards shooting guard Bradley Beal makes a lot of sense for this Bucks team. It’s worth considering Buddy Hield, Gordon Hayward, Victor Oladipo and LaMarcus Aldridge as players who could help Milwaukee push the needle via trade. However, opposing general managers will be able to smell the desperation in the air when dealing with Milwaukee, so a trade won’t come easily.

We’ll start by highlighting some nice auxiliary pieces that would help facilitate a trade, but ultimately, there are three pieces that could be centerpieces in any deal the Bucks make.