NBA Insiders tease several mystery trade targets for the Milwaukee Bucks

With the trade deadline approaching, rumors are starting to intensify throughout the association, especially regarding the Milwaukee Bucks.

The Bucks have been linked to a handful of targets lately, especially Jae Crowder. Milwaukee has been trying to land Crowder for months without success. Crowder appears to be clearly the team’s top target, but they are reportedly looking at other players in his archetype if they land the veteran. As reported by Yahoo! Jake Fischer of sports in a recent episode of Please Don’t Add This:

“There are other players that I cannot name. They said [their names] this week and was told not to report it. I know Milwaukee is calling for Jae Crowder types. By that I mean veteran, defensive-minded forwards making that kind of $10-$11 million salary.”

NBA Insiders tease several mystery targets for the Milwaukee Bucks

These rumors are very interesting. The Bucks’ interest in Crowder makes sense because the team needs another big defenseman. While Crowder himself would be a solid target, the Phoenix Suns appear to be toying with his demands, which could prompt the Bucks to look elsewhere for help.

Looking around the league for targets who fit the mold of what Fischer described, there are a few. Most notable is Kelly Oubre Jr. of the Charlotte Hornets. Before getting hurt, Oubre was having a career year averaging 20.2 points per game. Unfortunately, Oubre is currently out of the lineup after undergoing hand surgery in early January. He’s slated to return around February, so the Bucks could have him on their radar if they believe he can get back in shape. The forward is on the books for $12.6 million this season, so he’s close to Crowder’s range.

Another possible option is Robert Covington of the LA Clippers. Convington’s role with the Clippers this season has been as inconsistent as ever, and he’s averaging the second-fewest minutes of his career at 16.6 per game. The 6-foot-7 power forward would give the Bucks a defensive-minded veteran in the vein of Crowder who is capable of defending multiple positions at a high level. He also has plenty of playoff experience, which would be welcome in Milwaukee. Covington is making $12.3 million this year, which also puts him in the price range the Bucks are rumored to be looking at.

Fischer noted in a recent article that the Bucks are looking to package Grayson Allen and second round picks to make a move The two guards could certainly be involved in a package for Oubre or Covington if those were indeed two names the team has been interested in.

These are just two potential guesses as to who the Bucks could be looking at. There are certainly more names on the list, and it will be interesting to see if these targets are revealed soon.

Stay tuned for many more trade rumors involving the Milwaukee Bucks.