After a lackluster season, the Milwaukee Bucks need a fresh spark to ignite their upcoming campaign. One realistic option is to target Brandon Clarke from the Memphis Grizzlies.
Heading into the 2024-25 NBA season, the Bucks have revamped their roster following a relatively quiet offseason. Following last year’s disappointing playoff exit, the team has opted to retain its core while making some tactical changes. Key players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton, and Damian Lillard remain the pillars of the team’s success.
The Bucks have maintained a veteran presence, ensuring seasoned players like Brook Lopez and Bobby Portis continue to provide leadership and depth. However, with the departure of several role players in the offseason, there’s now an opportunity for younger talents to step up. New signings such as Taurean Prince and Gary Trent Jr. are expected to add versatility and scoring punch to the squad.
The projected depth chart showcases a blend of established stars and emerging talent. Giannis will lead at forward, alongside Middleton and Lillard in key scoring roles, while Portis and the new acquisitions will play critical roles off the bench, aiming to keep the team competitive throughout the season.
Memphis Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke Named as Potential Milwaukee Bucks’ Trade Target
While landing a major star isn’t feasible for Milwaukee in the near future, there’s nothing stopping them from pursuing Brandon Clarke. Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report explains why this is a realistic move for the Bucks.
According to Pincus, “The Bucks have an aging, expensive roster with limited flexibility to build around stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. With the team sitting above the second apron, Milwaukee is restricted to trades that don’t increase salary or involve aggregated players.
Since Bobby Portis is likely to opt out of his $13.4 million contract for 2025-26, the Bucks might want to consider trading him now if he becomes too costly to keep. One option could be Brandon Clarke of the Memphis Grizzlies, an athletic forward who has bounced back from an Achilles injury.
Assuming Clarke returns to his energetic, disruptive form, he could be a key asset. The Grizzlies are also looking to rebound from a rough season, and Portis would be a strong fit for their system,” Pincus noted.
Over his five-year career, Clarke has averaged 10.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.5 assists while shooting 55 percent from the field in just over 21 minutes per game.
As the Bucks work to reclaim their championship pedigree, their success will depend on the chemistry among their stars and the contributions of the supporting cast. With the Eastern Conference growing more competitive, adding Clarke’s skill set could prove valuable to Giannis and the team’s championship aspirations.