It seems as if every team in the league has a big man problem. And, ideally, the Bucks should be the last team to have such a problem, considering the presence of giants like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Brook Lopez. However, after last night’s embarrassing loss against the Trail Blazers, Coach Doc Rivers candidly addressed the team’s lack of backup on the frontcourt. Importantly, this worrying statement came amidst the coach’s public criticism of Khris Middleton. Was he hinting at a trade request?
The Bucks have had so many issues throughout the season. Starting with Bobby Portis Jr., the second unit leader hasn’t been at the best of his abilities this season. Importantly, Rivers, in his usual blame-game trait, has dragged the 6 ’10 tall baller’s name multiple times in the postseason. In fact, the big man’s name also loomed over the trade city throughout the season. However, looking at the current situation on the roster, the team can’t rid of Bobby Portis quite easily.
Here’s why? Firstly, Portis Jr. is suitable as a backup center to cover for Brook Lopez and Giannis for brief periods. Taking him out will strangle the situation for the Bucks, like it did last night. Highlighting Portis’s absence, Doc Rivers said, “We’re trying to play a small lineup a lot and because we only have three bigs, you know, and so when you take off our bigs away it really it really wears on us.”
Well, the team could simply replace him with another big, right? But there’s another concern as well. The team seems to be having a serious concern with another player as well, and that is Khris Middleton, the veteran ace shooter. Speaking of his poor game last night, Rivers said, “He didn’t touch the ball, and that’s the bottom line. like Khris Middleton had a hell of a game last night and he had two attempts tonight. That’s inexcusable.” It seemed like an indirect message to the front office. So, what does it leave the Bucks with, as there are only a few days remaining before the deadline?
What’s the trade situation like for Doc Rivers’ Bucks?
Looking at the way things have gone for the Bucks, Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo definitely need some role players to support their cause. Even though the duo has been consistently generating buckets, the surrounding players rarely contribute, leaving them with plenty of close game losses.
Apr 2, 2023; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Philadelphia 76ers head coach Doc Rivers calls a play behind Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton (22) in the third quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
One of the strong trade news that emerged out of Wisconsin was about Bobby Portis Jr. The Athletic reported that plenty has shown interest in acquiring the big man as he seemed to fit the need across multiple franchises. However, at the same time, the Bucks are adamant about not letting him go without a star in return.
Now that the Khris Middleton issue seems to have emerged, the team may have to stick with Portis. Or maybe they can even rekindle their odds with Bradley Beal, who was on their radar before roping in Lillard. So, what do you think? Who will the Bucks trade and who will they end up with? Let us know in the comments.
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