Top 2 trades the Bucks must make before the 2025 NBA trade deadline

The Milwaukee Bucks began the 2024-25 NBA season with championship aspirations. However, as the season approaches the midway point, the team has struggled to find consistent form. From 2025 NBA trade deadline on the horizon, the Bucks have a key chance to make impactful changes and reaffirm their status as serious contenders in the highly competitive Eastern Conference. Two key moves stand out as game-changing opportunities: forward shifting Jerami Grant from the Portland Trail Blazers and center Jonas Valanciunas from the New Orleans Pelicans. These acquisitions would address the Bucks’ most pressing needs and set them up for a strong playoff push.

Bucks 2024-25 season so far

The Bucks entered the season with high expectations, but have encountered challenges that underscore their need for reinforcements. At 25-18they rank fourth in the Eastern Conference. It’s a respectable position, but far from dominant. The limitations imposed by the league’s financial rules add complexity to their trade scenarios. Bucks cannot receive more pay than they send. They also cannot combine outgoing contracts to get under a different apron. In addition, the Bucks only have one future first-round pick (2031) available for bids.

as a result much of the speculation ahead of schedule is focused on smaller moves. That includes trading Pat Connaughton’s $9.4 million contract to another team’s cap space to avoid another apron. However, Milwaukee’s best shot at making a significant upgrade could hinge on dealing Bobby Portis. The versatile forward and small-ball center, who earned $12.6 million this season, has been a valuable contributor. Replacing its production would not be easy. That said, he could potentially get a defensive-minded wing or a more impactful backup big man in return.

Here we will discuss the two best trades the Milwaukee Bucks must make before the 2025 NBA trade deadline.

Traded for Jeramie Grant

Acquiring Jeremy Grant would give the Bucks a versatile, two-way forward to complement Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. Grant’s scoring ability and defensive versatility solve Milwaukee’s need for a secondary scorer. He would also be a wing defender capable of guarding multiple positions.

Grant’s ability to create his own shot and his efficiency from beyond the arc (38.2 percent from three) make him ideal for Milwaukee’s championship aspirations. With Chris Middleton long-term future with team uncertainThe Bucks need to prioritize keeping Antetokounmpo happy and competitive. Adding a player of Grant’s caliber would re-establish Milwaukee as a legitimate contender in the Eastern Conference. They would be firmly in the mix behind powerhouses like the Celtics and Cavaliers.

To get Grant, the Bucks will likely have to put together a package that includes draft capital and the likes of Pat Connaughton and MarJon Beauchamp. Yes, parting ways with young talents like Beauchamp can be tough. However, the Bucks’ championship window is now. Grant’s presence would significantly raise the team’s ceiling. A starting lineup of Lillard, Grant, Middleton, Antetokounmpo and Brook Lopez would be pretty scary.

Get Jonas Valanciunas

Even with a star-studded roster led by two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and eight-time NBA All-Star Damian Lillard, the Bucks’ frontcourt depth remains a concern. Veteran center Jonas Valanciunas may be a missing piece to strengthen Milwaukee’s interior presence and strengthen their title chances.

Valanciunas, currently averaging 11.8 points and 8.1 rebounds with the Washington Wizards. He brings a traditional skill set that could prove invaluable. His size and low scoring ability would provide the Bucks with a reliable option in the paint.

The Eastern Conference features several dominant big men. Among them are Kristaps Porzingis, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. This makes a physical presence like Valanciunas a valuable asset in potential playoff matchups. His ability to control the boards and protect the paint would give the Bucks an edge against teams with skilled players in the frontcourt.

Furthermore, Valanciunas’ low scoring would complement Antetokounmpo’s aggressive, rim-attacking style of play. The Bucks’ offense often relies on Antetokounmpo’s ability to draw defenders and create shooting opportunities. His presence would add another layer of offensive versatility to their game plan. By solidifying their frontcourt with Valanciunas, Milwaukee would be in a better position to make a deep playoff run and contend with the Eastern Conference’s elite.

Why these trades are crucial

The Bucks are at a pivotal moment. Given that their championship frame is tied to the prime years of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, patting is not an option. The additions of Jerami Grant and Jonas Valanciunas would address critical roster gaps, giving the team the depth, versatility and defensive presence needed to compete with the NBA’s best. These bold moves could be the difference between another early playoff exit and a deep postseason run. If the Bucks want to turn the season around and secure their place among the league’s elite, they must act decisively before the 2025 trade deadline. It’s time to go all in.