Bucks Show Interest in Andrew Wiggins; Sixers Eyeing Buddy Hield and Bojan Bogdanovic
As the 2024 trade deadline approaches within two days, the rumor mill buzzes with anticipation. While actual deals have been scarce so far, the league anticipates a flurry of activity leading up to Thursday’s 3 p.m. deadline. Here’s the latest speculation circulating among teams:
Bucks Eyeing Wiggins, Facing Complications in Deal
The Milwaukee Bucks are actively seeking trade opportunities, but obstacles loom large. Having depleted much of their draft capital in recent high-profile trades, such as acquiring Jrue Holiday and Damian Lillard, they are left with minimal assets, primarily two second-round picks. Additionally, their roster lacks enticing young players, and any significant trade would likely involve including Bobby Portis. Despite these challenges, the Bucks are expressing interest in Andrew Wiggins of the Golden State Warriors, as reported by Jake Fischer. While Wiggins is favored by Warriors coach Steve Kerr for his toughness and shooting skills, the Bucks are hesitant to part with Portis due to his similar attributes and the team’s thin frontcourt depth. Despite these complexities, the Bucks remain determined to bolster their perimeter defense, recognizing the need for improvement under new head coach Doc Rivers.
Sixers Set Sights on Hield and Bogdanovic
Despite the setback of Joel Embiid’s injury, the Philadelphia 76ers are actively seeking acquisitions as buyers in the trade market. According to Fischer, they are targeting Buddy Hield from the Indiana Pacers and Bojan Bogdanovic from the Detroit Pistons. Both veterans possess strong outside shooting abilities, which would enhance the Sixers’ offensive spacing and firepower, regardless of Embiid’s availability. Moreover, their manageable contracts offer financial flexibility and facilitate a seamless deal, with Hield’s $18.5 million contract expiring after this season and Bogdanovic’s $20 million deal featuring only $2 million guaranteed for the following season.
Celtics Pursue Marginal Upgrades
Despite boasting the league’s best record at 38-12 and leading the Eastern Conference by five games, the Boston Celtics remain active in seeking roster improvements. While their starting lineup is formidable, concerns linger regarding the consistency of their bench players. As reported by Fischer, the Celtics aim to bolster their roster depth by leveraging their $6.25 million trade exception. Among the targets on their radar are Otto Porter Jr. from the Toronto Raptors and Lonnie Walker from the Brooklyn Nets. Porter brings valuable championship experience and defensive versatility as a big wing, while Walker offers scoring prowess off the bench, addressing the Celtics’ need for additional backcourt options.