Had it not been for their incredible offense, the Milwaukee Bucks might not be in second place in the Eastern Conference. The team’s defense has been a disaster this season, ranking 19th in defensive rating, a far cry from the top-five position it used to own in previous seasons.
Apart from coaching strategy, one issue plaguing the Bucks on that end of the floor is the need for a true lockdown defender on the perimeter. While Giannis Antetokounmpo is an elite rim protector, having a player who can consistently guard the opposing team’s best wing scorer would greatly benefit Milwaukee.
That’s where New York Knicks shooting guard Quentin Grimes comes in as an ideal trade target for the Bucks.
Knicks open for trade talks
According to The Athletic’s Fred Katz, the Knicks front office is keen on moving the former first-round pick, who has lost favor with coach Tom Thibodeau.
“The Knicks are actively fielding offers for the former first-round pick, according to rival executives who have been in contact with New York’s front office,” Katz wrote.
“The approach signals a change from only a year or two ago when the Knicks clutched onto Grimes in trade talks. The 23-year-old has fallen out of favor with head coach Tom Thibodeau of late, losing the starting shooting guard job to Donte DiVincenzo on Dec. 8 and seeing his playing time decrease from 30 minutes a game in 2022-23 to 17 since moving to the second unit,” Katz added.
A 6-foot-5 guard, the 23-year-old started 66 games for the Knicks last season and had a good account of himself, averaging 11.3 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists while shooting 38 percent from three-point range. This season, Grimes is playing under 20 minutes per game and averaging 6.9 points on 40 percent shooting.
Skillset fits the Bucks’ needs
When the Bucks offloaded Jrue Holiday and Grayson Allen in the deal for Damian Lillard, Milwaukee also compromised its perimeter defense. During his time in the league, Holiday showcased his exceptional defensive skills, relentlessly hounding guards and wingmen. On the other hand, Allen proved reliable, if not remarkable, in his performances.
If the Bucks swing a trade for Grimes, he will be a valuable addition to their roster, providing much-needed depth at the shooting guard position.
In addition to his scoring prowess, Quentin has also shown grit on the defensive end, with his size and athleticism allowing him to keep in step with some of the league’s elite guards. This would be especially beneficial for the Bucks, who need more perimeter defense this season.
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