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Could the Bucks consider pairing Lillard with Giannis?
Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo drives for the basket against Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Could the Bucks consider pairing Damian Lillard with Giannis Antetokounmpo?

The Milwaukee Bucks are reportedly interested in pairing Damian Lillard with Giannis Antetokounmpo. When speaking on a recent episode of NBA Today, Andscape's Marc J. Spears noted how multiple Eastern Conference teams have shown interest in the All-Star point guard. Milwaukee is among the teams that have been mentioned.

Similarly to the Miami Heat, Milwaukee doesn't possess the trade assets to entice Portland. Without a blue-chip young prospect to dangle in trade talks, the Bucks will struggle to put together an captivating package. Portland wants young players, a potential star and draft picks. 

Giannis has been putting pressure on Milwaukee's front office partly due to their lack of assets. The Bucks sold the farm to acquire Jrue Holiday in 2020, and the well is yet to replenish. 

Lillard would likely be happy with a trade to Milwaukee, as a potential pairing with Giannis would instantly create one of the league's best duos. 

Still, the Bucks would need to engage a third team to get a deal over the line. That gives Milwaukee a similar problem to the Heat. There aren't many teams willing to help another roster become contenders. Even rebuilding teams will have reservations about making their own pathway harder. 

The Toronto Raptors have emerged as potential front-runners to land Lillard. While Toronto may not be a desirable destination, they have all the pieces needed to create an enticing trade package. The Raptors will now be the bar by which all other offers are measured. 

Lillard is rumored to want a trade before training camp starts at the beginning of October. The rumors are heating up. There's no telling which team is going to win the sweepstakes. However, it's highly unlikely we will see Milwaukee pairing Lillard with Giannis in the coming months. 

Adam Taylor

Adam Taylor is a sports journalist based out of the UK. Adam has been covering the NBA for nearly a decade with a core focus on the Boston Celtics. He currently holds bylines with Yardbarker, SB Nation and USA Today

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