As the NBA trade deadline approaches, the Milwaukee Bucks are reportedly considering trading forward Bobby Portis Jr. to bolster their roster. Portis, a fan favourite and key bench contributor, has emerged as a valuable trade asset for Milwaukee as they seek rotational upgrades to better complement their star duo, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.
Portis, 28, is in the second year of a four-year, $49 million contract, with two years and nearly $26 million remaining on his deal. The 6-foot-10 forward has delivered solid numbers this season, averaging 13.1 points and 7.7 rebounds per game while shooting an efficient 47.8% from the field.
Despite his production, the Bucks appear determined to acquire a player who can offer more impact or fill critical needs, especially on the defensive end.
While trade speculation swirls, Milwaukee has a more immediate task at hand: the NBA Cup Finals matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Bucks secured their spot in the finals by defeating the Atlanta Hawks, with Antetokounmpo and Lillard leading the charge.
Giannis’ dominance in the paint combined with Lillard’s perimeter shooting has formed a formidable pairing, but the team remains eager to strengthen its supporting cast.
The Thunder, on the other hand, booked their finals berth by overcoming the Houston Rockets in the Western Conference semi-final.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander once again shined for OKC, showing his ability to take over crucial games alongside emerging star Jalen Williams.
Tuesday’s NBA Cup Finals promises to be a thrilling encounter, headlined by the duos of Antetokounmpo-Lillard and Gilgeous-Alexander-Williams. Statistically, the Bucks’ pairing holds the edge, averaging a combined 58.4 points per game compared to the Thunder’s 52.0.
However, team performances tell a different story. OKC currently leads the Western Conference with an impressive 20-5 record, demonstrating remarkable consistency this season. Milwaukee, while improving, sits sixth in the Eastern Conference with a 14-11 record.
The finals matchup is expected to be tightly contested, with both teams relying heavily on their star duos. For Milwaukee, the game presents an opportunity to build momentum amid trade rumors and rising expectations. For OKC, a victory would cement their status as one of the league’s top contenders this season.
As speculation continues over Bobby Portis’ future, Milwaukee’s immediate focus remains on securing the NBA Cup title. The outcome may not only provide a trophy but also influence the Bucks’ trade decisions heading into the second half of the season.
