21 up-for-grabs players who may play a starring role in NBA trade deadline rumors

Pat Connaughton, Milwaukee Bucks

The Milwaukee Bucks are always heavily involved in the rumor mill leading up to the trade deadline, doing their best to maximize their title window with Giannis Antetokounmpo and now Damian Lillard. This season should be no different, and though they are running low on draft assets, that won't stop them from trying to make moves, and Pat Connaughton will certainly be involved in that.

With a $9.4 million salary for 2024-25, Pat Connaughton has a decently-sized salary that could be a useful tool in helping the Bucks net a quality role player in return. Teams won't be banging down the door for Connaughton, but if Milwaukee attaches a pick or two to him, perhaps an organization may be more willing to take him in.

While he's certainly taken a step back over the past few years, Connaughton still has something left to give at this level. He's still a decent enough rebounder, facilitator and shooter from distance with championship experience that he could find time in someone's rotation. He could also be a mentor on a younger roster looking to make the leap next season.

Expect to hear Pat Connaughton's name to pop up in trade rumors fairly often this coming season.