The Milwaukee Bucks have kicked the tires on a potential trade for D’Angelo Russell, but it looks like that idea stalled before it ever really got rolling. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Bucks’ interest in Russell came with a major caveat: they only wanted him if he declined his $6 million player option for next season and agreed to return on a minimum deal. Unsurprisingly, that wasn’t a move Russell was willing to make.
And honestly, who could blame him?
Russell is in the middle of a tough season, seeing a career-low in minutes and struggling to find rhythm in a limited role. With his value already taking a hit, it makes little financial or strategic sense for him to walk away from guaranteed money-especially with an uncertain market waiting for him this summer. That player option is his safety net, and he’s holding onto it for good reason.
From Milwaukee’s perspective, the interest in Russell was more about opportunity than long-term fit. The Bucks are in a precarious spot right now.
Giannis Antetokounmpo is sidelined, the team is slipping in the standings, and the trade deadline is creeping closer. They’re looking for ways to patch holes and maybe even stockpile a few assets for the future.
A player like Russell-former All-Star, still just 27, and capable of catching fire on any given night-could’ve been a low-risk swing under the right conditions.
But again, only if the math worked.
There’s still a scenario where Milwaukee could make a move involving Russell, but it would likely require a third team like Dallas stepping in. If the Mavericks were willing to send some draft capital Milwaukee’s way in exchange for taking on Russell’s contract-possibly in a salary-dump type deal-it could be worth considering. The Bucks’ draft pick cupboard is pretty bare, so even a couple second-rounders could come in handy down the road.
Right now, Milwaukee’s backcourt could use a jolt. Kevin Porter Jr. remains out with injury, and the rotation is thin behind Damian Lillard.
Russell, even in a diminished role, has the kind of scoring punch that could help stabilize things. He’s not a long-term fix, but he might’ve been a useful stopgap-if the financials lined up.
Beyond Russell, the Bucks are reportedly keeping tabs on other names, including Brooklyn’s Cam Thomas. The common thread?
High-upside players with less-than-ideal contracts. Milwaukee’s front office seems to be targeting potential over polish-guys who might not be perfect fits now but could develop into something more, or at least help facilitate future moves.
So, while a Russell-to-Milwaukee deal doesn’t look likely at the moment, the Bucks aren’t done exploring. The trade deadline hasn’t passed yet, and they’re clearly still working the phones. Whether it’s a small deal to add depth or a creative move to bring in picks, Milwaukee’s front office is trying to thread the needle between short-term help and long-term flexibility.
Stay tuned-this could get interesting.