Exploratory Bucks-Kings trade talks come to light
With the trade deadline approaching in less than a month, rumors have been flying left and right. The two teams seem to be in those rumors more often than not, and it is Milwaukee Bucks and Sacramento Kings. The The Bucks are looking to add scoring help in addition to Giannis Antetokounmpo, and they looked around to see if there was anyone who could fit the bill.
As for the Kings, they want to shed salary while remaining competitive, and there are players on the team who fit that bill as well. Both the Bucks and Kings can help each other, which is why latest news rumors makes sense, includes Bobby PortisKeon Ellis and Malik Monkaccording to Michael Scotto of HoopsHipe.
“Portis and another unidentified minimum-salary player also spoke with the Sacramento Kings in exploratory talks that include Keon Ellis and Malik Monk, league sources told HoopsHipe,” Scotto wrote. “Milwaukee expected scoring help, which Monk could theoretically provide, and Ellis was also on their radar.”
“Monk is owed $20.19 million next season and has a player option of $21.58 million for the 2027-28 season. Ellis will become an unrestricted free agent this summer, but if he is acquired via trade before the deadline, his rightful bird would be transferred to the team that acquires him. Portis, conversely, has a $144 option and is $5 million cheaper for next season. $5 million. for the 2027-28 season.”
It could be a good move for both teams, but it’s uncertain whether Monk would solve all the scoring problems the Bucks need. Ellis is a solid 3-and-D player, but he wouldn’t be that much of an upgrade over what the Bucks already have. Portis could be good frontcourt depth for the Kings, and with them finding a rhythm over the last few games, they could use a little more help bolstering their roster.
Both teams sit outside the Play-Ins in their respective conferences, and seem to be trying to do whatever they can to climb up the standings.
2026-01-18 17:45:00
