Bucks Linked to 12-Time All-Star as Damian Lillard's Replacement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dibyendu Mondal | Last updated Jul 2, 2025 7:40 AM ET

The Milwaukee Bucks are making some intriguing roster moves as NBA free agency heats up. With the unexpected release of Damian Lillard and the addition of Myles Turner, attention is now turning towards who will orchestrate the Bucks backcourt for the 2025–26 season.

The Bucks have clearly targeted veteran playmakers to support Giannis Antetokounmpo’s title aspirations, drawing buzz from around the league. The Bucks could enter the Chris Paul sweepstakes.

"The Milwaukee Bucks have registered interest in (Paul)," NBA TV's Chris Haynes noted on Monday. "The Charlotte Hornets, they (are trying) to make a play on Chris Paul as well, but I'm told he wants to stay closer to home.

"The Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns– they are still in play."

Paul, a 12‑time All‑Star, remains one of the most experienced free-agent point guards available. The challenge is Paul appears to prefer being close to his family in Los Angeles, which would not exactly be a reality in Milwaukee.

Last season, Paul started all 82 games for the Spurs, averaging 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 3.6 rebounds.

The Milwaukee Bucks have entered the Chris Paul sweepstakes, per @ChrisBHaynes.

Chris Paul still seemingly prefers to stay close to his family and still considers the Clippers and Suns as options. pic.twitter.com/ZzfFooQCap
— APHoops (@APH00PS) July 2, 2025

Despite some skepticism about Paul's current upside, ESPN Insider Bobby Marks highlighted Paul as a high-impact option.

“I don’t know if Milwaukee fits what Chris is trying to do at this stage of his career, especially with it being so far from home, which I know is a priority for him." Marks said during an episode of "The Dan Patrick Show".

"But he’s the best available free agent point guard on the market. He played 82 games last year, and he’s still got a lot left. So if I’m Milwaukee, that’s my priority…going out and trying to get a player like that.”

Heading into Day 3 of the free agency, it remains to be seen what over moves Milwaukee has up its sleeves.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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