Bobby Portis Trade-Eligible, and the Bucks Might Be Ready to Make a Move
Bobby Portis is officially trade-eligible as of December 15, and the timing couldn’t be more interesting for a Milwaukee Bucks team that’s staring down some big decisions. With a brief break in their schedule before they hit the court again, the front office has a window - and possibly the motivation - to shake things up. According to reports, the Bucks are weighing a “significant addition” to the roster, with the goal of reinforcing their championship credentials and showing Giannis Antetokounmpo they’re all-in on winning now.
And if Milwaukee is going to make that kind of splash, Portis is almost certainly going to be part of the deal.
The Numbers Say It All
Let’s talk roster math. Portis is earning $13.4 million this season, making him the fourth-highest-paid player on the team.
Right above him? Kyle Kuzma at $22.4 million.
If the Bucks are eyeing a big-name acquisition - and there’s speculation that Zach LaVine could be that name - then those two contracts are the most logical pieces to move. After Kuzma and Portis, the next highest salary belongs to Kevin Porter Jr. at just over $5 million, which doesn’t move the needle much in terms of trade value.
So if Milwaukee is serious about landing a difference-maker, Portis and Kuzma are likely the ones packing bags.
Timing Is Everything
The Bucks just took a 45-point drubbing at the hands of the Brooklyn Nets - a loss that raises more than just eyebrows. It raises urgency. With a few days off before their next game, Milwaukee has a rare opportunity to make a move, get a new player (or players) in the building, and start the integration process without the pressure of back-to-backs or immediate game prep.
This isn’t just about salvaging a rough night against Brooklyn. It’s about sending a message - to the team, to the fans, and most importantly, to Giannis - that the Bucks are serious about contending this season.
Portis’ Stock Is Rising
Here’s where things get even more interesting: Bobby Portis is playing some of his best basketball of the season right now. Over the last five games, he’s been the Bucks’ second-leading scorer and rebounder.
He’s been a spark off the bench, a steady presence, and a guy who continues to do the dirty work while also putting up numbers. That kind of production, especially coming from a veteran with playoff experience, doesn’t go unnoticed around the league.
Portis is the type of player who can help a contender immediately - and other teams know it. His value is up, and Milwaukee may feel the time is right to capitalize.
A Familiar Spot for Portis
This isn’t Bobby Portis’ first time in the rumor mill. He’s been here before.
But this time feels different. The Bucks are in a transitional phase, trying to maximize their window with Giannis while managing a roster that still has pieces from that 2021 championship run.
In fact, Portis is one of just three players left from that title team - the other two being Giannis and his brother Thanasis.
If this is the end of the road for Portis in Milwaukee, it’s been a memorable run. Since arriving in 2020, he’s become a fan favorite, a key contributor, and a symbol of the team’s grit and grind. He’s had big playoff moments, brought energy off the bench, and helped deliver a title to a city that hadn’t seen one in 50 years.
But the NBA doesn’t wait for sentiment. If the Bucks believe they need a major move to stay in the title hunt, and Portis is the piece that makes it possible, they may have to make that call.
Stay locked in - the Bucks have a decision to make, and the clock is ticking.