Pelicans' wings could be Bucks missing pieces 1 Mar 28, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) drives to the basket against New Orleans Pelicans forward Larry Nance Jr. (22) during the second half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

Pelicans’ wings could be Bucks missing pieces

Originally posted on WI Sports Heroics | By Nathan Yasis | Last updated Dec 9, 2025 8:26 AM ET

The Milwaukee Bucks have struggled to fill the small forward role this season, and the New Orleans Pelicans might offer a solution. NBA insider Jake Fischer reports that the Pelicans are willing to entertain trade talks for Trey Murphy III and Herb Jones, two wings whose potential availability could trigger a competitive trade scramble.

Either wing could make a major impact for the Milwaukee Bucks , who are currently mired at 10-15 on the season. Trey Murphy III, who broke out last year, is putting together another strong campaign, averaging 20.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.7 steals per game.

Herb Jones, on the other hand, could provide the Bucks with the defensive presence they’ve been missing on the wing. With limited size, AJ Green and Gary Trent Jr. have often been tasked with guarding larger opponents, creating mismatches. Adding a natural small forward and All-Defensive honoree like Jones could spark a much-needed defensive turnaround for Milwaukee.

Bucks should try to get Giannis Antetokounmpo some help

When he’s available, Giannis Antetokounmpo has shouldered much of Milwaukee’s scoring load this season, highlighting the team’s need for another playmaker. While Kevin Porter Jr. has contributed in that role, Trey Murphy III could elevate the team even further as a scorer and facilitator.

A key issue with Herb Jones is that he is not eligible to be traded until January 14. With Giannis sidelined for the next month, the Bucks need reinforcements sooner rather than later, making that timing potentially too late. That constraint could push Milwaukee to focus its efforts on acquiring Trey Murphy III instead.

Adding either player could transform the Milwaukee Bucks’ lineup. With Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future in Milwaukee still uncertain, executing a trade would send a strong message that the team is committed to winning.

Pelicans' wings could be Bucks missing pieces 2 Apr 10, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts in the second quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

The trade would likely require spending most of the assets the Bucks have left, but standing pat and waiting carries just as much risk.

The Milwaukee Bucks cannot afford to stay idle. Pursuing Trey Murphy III or Herb Jones could provide the spark the team desperately needs.

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

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