NBA trade activity is far from over. The Milwaukee Bucks made a move that could be seen as something of a surprise. Blockbuster deals happened earlier in the league. Other trades will be unable to approach the type of Doncic-Davis impact, but significant changes like what unfolded between this team and the Washington Wizards are to be made.
The Wisconsin-based side believes that they are in a championship window as long as they have Giannis Antetokounmpo. The organization made a trade that included swapping Kyle Kuzma for Khris Middleton, according to a post on X by Shams Charania. This shift indicates that the franchise believed the core duo that brought a ring would no longer be viable for another one.
And this approach makes sense to a degree. The aging veteran struggled to consistently stay on the floor as of late. And as the adage goes, 'The best ability is availability.' However, it's reasonable to question the key exchange here. It is often better to move on from an older player before their market interest completely evaporates.
By the same token, simply making a shortsighted trade can do more harm. It's often better to remain diligent and find a deal that makes sense for the next stage of the plan for the team. Regardless, coach Doc Rivers will now have a trio of Antetokounmpo, Kuzma, and Damian Lillard. The head man in charge is not too far removed from saving his job after a slow start. It will be interesting to see how he positions and tweaks the new lineup.
Middleton's history with the Milwaukee Bucks
As stated, players are added to be let go. Sooner or later. Cornerstone pieces sticking with one team for five, six, or seven-plus years is far from reality nowadays. But the return needs to remain an important aspect when evaluating trades. Furthermore, the legacy of a player like Middleton should be considered as well. If it weren't for him, 2021 would not end in a parade celebration.
So it's only natural for fanbases to almost feel betrayed by the front office when a trade like this hits social media feeds. Before injuries, his ability to defend and complement Giannis made him the ideal person for the Eastern Conference duo. The Texas A&M product will now go to a team that is universally seen as tanking. There is still a chance he ends up getting bought out.
Moreover, a team that is truly a piece away could benefit from acquiring him. But for now, he will be in a completely different situation from that of the Milwaukee Bucks. Patience is a virtue, and that lesson will give him a major test if he ends up staying in the US capital.
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