The Milwaukee Bucks are clearly in win-now mode, and the buzz around the league suggests they’re exploring ways to bolster their roster around Giannis Antetokounmpo. According to multiple league sources, including chatter from the recent G League Winter Showcase, the Bucks have been linked most frequently to Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant. And it doesn’t stop there - there’s talk that Milwaukee could potentially swing a deal for both Grant and center Robert Williams III.
This type of move would signal that the Bucks are serious about addressing some of their current roster concerns, particularly on the defensive end and in terms of frontcourt depth. Grant, a versatile two-way forward, would give Milwaukee another wing defender who can also create his own shot - a valuable commodity in a playoff setting.
As for Williams, when healthy, he’s one of the league’s more impactful rim protectors. But that’s the catch: health.
Williams has struggled to stay on the floor, and his limited availability this season has been a concern. In fact, the Blazers have statistically performed better without him on the court, which raises questions about how much he could realistically help Milwaukee down the stretch.
As for the framework of a potential deal, there’s speculation that Milwaukee could look to package Bobby Portis, Kyle Kuzma, and another smaller contract to make the money work. But even if the salaries align, the bigger question is whether that trade really moves the needle for the Bucks. Grant certainly fits the mold of a playoff-tested forward who can slide into a variety of lineups, but Williams’ injury history makes him more of a gamble.
Milwaukee’s front office isn’t stopping with Portland’s roster, either. Heat forward Andrew Wiggins has also been floated as a possible target.
And then there’s Wizards sharpshooter Corey Kispert, who’s reportedly on the Bucks’ radar as well. Kispert is shooting 40.3% from deep this season - a number that jumps off the page - but his role has diminished, with his minutes down to just under 20 per game.
For a Bucks team that could always use more floor spacing around Giannis and Damian Lillard, Kispert’s shooting could be a low-cost, high-upside addition.
Elsewhere in the Central Division, the Cleveland Cavaliers appear to be taking a more measured approach. While there’s no indication they’re planning to shake up their core, they could still be active on the margins.
Two names to keep an eye on: De’Andre Hunter and Dean Wade. Houston reportedly had interest in Wade before signing Dorian Finney-Smith this past summer, so it wouldn’t be surprising if teams circle back now that the trade deadline is approaching.
Meanwhile, the market for Coby White is heating up. At least six teams have reportedly checked in on the Bulls guard, with the Magic, Hawks, and Cavaliers mentioned as potential suitors.
Orlando, in particular, is believed to be looking for more scoring punch and could be willing to part with Jonathan Isaac and some second-round draft capital to make it happen. That said, the Bulls are holding out hope they can land an unprotected first-round pick for White - a tall order, considering he’s on track to hit unrestricted free agency this summer and may not sign an extension before then.
A playoff team might be willing to part with a 2026 first-rounder, but landing a pick with serious lottery upside could be a stretch.
And then there’s Jalen Duren in Detroit - a name that’s starting to generate real buzz around front offices. The 20-year-old big man is having a breakout season, and with restricted free agency on the horizon, teams are watching closely to see what kind of deal he commands.
According to one assistant GM, the Pistons are flying under the radar in terms of long-term potential, but they’re just as well-positioned as teams like Oklahoma City and San Antonio when it comes to building a contender over the next five years. If Duren keeps trending upward, he could be looking at a second contract north of $40 million per year - and possibly even a full five-year max, which could push his annual salary over $48 million.
Bottom line: the Central Division is shaping up to be one of the more active regions ahead of the trade deadline. Whether it’s Milwaukee going all-in, Chicago weighing offers for White, or Detroit preparing to lock up their cornerstone center, there’s no shortage of storylines worth watching as the calendar flips to 2026.