21 up-for-grabs players who may play a starring role in NBA trade deadline rumors
By Dalton Sell
Bobby Portis, Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks are always among the more active teams across the NBA on the trade market. Yet, they are now limited in the moves they can make due to second apron restrictions, so they must get creative with any future trades they make. One such route they could take is exploring the trade market for big man Bobby Portis.
Portis has been a key cog in Milwaukee's success over the years, having helped them win the title in 2021, but that didn't stop them from shopping him last season. With the asset cupboard running low, there's an argument to be made that Portis is currently Milwaukee's best - and most realistic - trade asset if they want to land a meaningful upgrade in their pursuit of another title.
There's no denying that Portis can play at a high level. He's now finished third in the Sixth Man of the Year running in back-to-back seasons, averaging 13.9 points, 8.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists while he's hit 38.8 percent of his triples. He's the definition of a second-unit sparkplug, giving the Bucks a boost of energy whenever he steps onto the court with his infectious energy.
Making $12.6 million this coming season, Portis is on a reasonable contract for the type of numbers he produces. While he's a snug fit on Milwaukee's bench, one reason they might look to trade him is if there's an opportunity to add more defense, they just may pounce. Defense was an issue for the team last season, and if they stumble out of the gates, they may dangle Portis in search of defensive help.