After an underwhelming conclusion to the 2023-24 season, the Milwaukee Bucks might undergo significant changes before the next season begins.
As the 2024 NBA Draft approaches, trade rumors have been circulating around Pat Connaughton, Bobby Portis, and Brook Lopez, as the Bucks aim to build a more competitive team around Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.
Of the trio, Lopez appears to be a prime candidate for a trade. The Bucks are reportedly planning to revamp their defensive strategy next season, which could affect Lopez’s role on the team.
At 36, Lopez has successfully transformed his game into that of a floor-spacing center who excels in rim protection. This adaptability has secured his spot on the Bucks for the past six seasons, during which he earned two All-Defensive Team selections and was a strong contender for Defensive Player of the Year.
Given his current value and the fact that he’s set to earn $23 million next season, trading Lopez could be a strategic move for the Bucks. If they decide to go down this path, numerous teams are reportedly eager to acquire his skills.
According to Gery Woelfel, the Memphis Grizzlies, Los Angeles Lakers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Dallas Mavericks, New Orleans Pelicans, and Houston Rockets are all interested in Lopez. Woelfel also noted that the Rockets had pursued Lopez in free agency last year before he re-signed with the Bucks.
While Brook Lopez is 36, the veteran center showed last season he still has plenty in his tank.
— Gery Woelfel (@GeryWoelfel) June 25, 2024
Lopez averaged 12.5 points during the regular season before raising it to 17.7 points in the playoffs. He also ranked third in the league in blocked shots at 2.4 rejections a game.…