The Milwaukee Bucks have long been known for their desire to stay competitive and constantly upgrade their roster, particularly in areas where they’ve shown vulnerability. While the Bucks’ offseason moves have addressed some of their key issues, particularly on defense, it wouldn’t be surprising if the front office kept a close eye on the trade market, especially if the team’s revamped roster still shows signs of weakness as the season progresses. One of the primary concerns for Milwaukee last season was their perimeter defense, and despite adding solid defenders like Delon Wright and Taurean Prince, the Bucks could still benefit from more defensive firepower.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at three former trade targets who could resurface for Milwaukee during the 2024-25 season as the Bucks look to shore up their defense and maintain championship contention.
1. Matisse Thybulle – Portland Trail Blazers
Matisse Thybulle’s name was linked to the Milwaukee Bucks several times leading up to the 2023 NBA trade deadline, with the team reportedly interested in acquiring the defensive specialist. While Thybulle ultimately ended up with the Portland Trail Blazers and Milwaukee chose to go with Jae Crowder, the two-time All-Defensive honoree remains an intriguing option for the Bucks.
Thybulle’s defensive prowess is undeniable. At 6-foot-5 with a 6-foot-11 wingspan, he is a disruptive force on the perimeter. His length, agility, and ability to anticipate passes make him a nightmare for opposing ball-handlers and shooters. For a Milwaukee team that struggled to contain elite wing players last season, Thybulle could be a game-changer, providing much-needed size and defensive tenacity on the perimeter. He would help alleviate the burden on Giannis Antetokounmpo, allowing Giannis to focus more on offense without worrying about constantly guarding the opposition’s best players.
However, the challenge with Thybulle is on the offensive end. Throughout his career, he’s averaged just 4.8 points per game, with inconsistent three-point shooting (33.8%). His lack of offensive versatility could present issues, particularly on a Bucks team that thrives when the floor is spaced for Giannis to attack the paint. Despite this, his defensive upside could outweigh any offensive shortcomings, especially if Milwaukee’s offense is firing on all cylinders.
Financially, trading for Thybulle would likely involve sending out Bobby Portis, who is set to make $12.6 million in 2024-25. Portis has been a beloved figure in Milwaukee, but he was rumored to be available in trades last season. If the Bucks once again find themselves in dire need of perimeter defense, a Thybulle-Portis swap could be a move worth considering.
2. OG Anunoby – Toronto Raptors
Another name that has frequently surfaced in trade discussions surrounding the Bucks is OG Anunoby of the Toronto Raptors. Milwaukee reportedly explored trade talks for Anunoby last season, but the Raptors’ high asking price ultimately deterred them. Still, Anunoby remains one of the most sought-after two-way wings in the league, and his potential fit with the Bucks is undeniable.
Anunoby is the kind of player that every contending team covets — a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions, combined with the ability to knock down threes at a high clip. Anunoby averaged 16.8 points per game on 38.7% shooting from three last season, while also being one of the best perimeter defenders in the league. His defensive versatility would allow him to guard wings, guards, and even some big men, making him a perfect fit for the Bucks’ switch-heavy defensive schemes.
Acquiring Anunoby would likely come at a steep price, both in terms of assets and salary. The Raptors would undoubtedly demand a significant package of players and picks, and Milwaukee may need to part with more than just Portis or a first-round pick to get the deal done. Still, for a player of Anunoby’s caliber, the Bucks might be willing to pull the trigger if they believe he can be the final piece to their championship puzzle.
3. Dorian Finney-Smith – Brooklyn Nets
Dorian Finney-Smith is another player who has been on Milwaukee’s radar in the past, particularly during his time with the Dallas Mavericks. A 3-and-D specialist, Finney-Smith would provide the Bucks with a much-needed combination of perimeter defense and floor spacing, similar to what they were hoping to get out of Jae Crowder.
Finney-Smith’s defense is his calling card, as he has consistently guarded the opposing team’s best wing player throughout his career. Standing at 6-foot-7 with a strong build, Finney-Smith has the size and athleticism to hold his own against elite wings in the NBA. Offensively, he can stretch the floor, shooting 36% from deep for his career. His ability to knock down open threes would make him a natural fit alongside Giannis and Khris Middleton, allowing the Bucks to maintain spacing while also upgrading their defense.
Brooklyn acquired Finney-Smith as part of the Kyrie Irving trade, but with the Nets still in a semi-rebuild mode, they may be open to flipping him for the right price. Milwaukee could target Finney-Smith as a more cost-effective trade option if Anunoby or Thybulle proves too expensive.
Conclusion
While the Milwaukee Bucks’ roster has undergone significant changes, their quest for a championship is far from over. If the current roster doesn’t pan out as expected or if additional defensive reinforcements are needed, Matisse Thybulle, OG Anunoby, and Dorian Finney-Smith represent three viable trade targets who could give the Bucks the defensive edge they need to dominate in the playoffs. As the season progresses, don’t be surprised if these names resurface in trade rumors as Milwaukee looks to secure another title run.