Alabama Star Mark Sears Opts to Return, Milwaukee Bucks Shift Draft Focus
The Milwaukee Bucks have been scouting various prospects leading up to the 2024 NBA Draft, holding picks No. 23 and No. 33. The team is particularly focused on their first-round pick, which is expected to have a significant impact on their roster next season.
One prospect linked to the Bucks was Alabama standout Mark Sears. However, Bucks fans will need to redirect their attention as Sears, the 6-foot-1 guard, announced his decision to return to Alabama for another year rather than enter the draft.
Sears, who showcased impressive stats last season with 21.5 points per game on 50.8 percent shooting, along with 4.2 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.6 steals, will be withdrawing from the draft to enhance his prospects for next year.
Despite suggestions that Sears could potentially fill the shoes of veteran Patrick Beverley if he departs in free agency, the Bucks must now explore other options to address their backcourt needs for the upcoming season.
Milwaukee Bucks Explore Potential Trade Reunion with NBA Champion
“Potential Trade Reunites Bucks with NBA Champion Worth $26 Million”
The Milwaukee Bucks faced another early playoff exit, prompting discussions about potential trades to bolster their championship aspirations. Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley proposed a trade scenario with the Golden State Warriors that could potentially elevate the Bucks back into title contention, featuring a familiar face.
In Buckley’s proposed trade, the Bucks would receive Gary Payton II, Moses Moody, the No. 52 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, and a 2026 second-round pick via the Hawks. In return, the Warriors would acquire Bobby Portis and Andre Jackson Jr. While the focus of the trade revolves around acquiring Moody, Buckley highlights the additional value this deal could offer the Bucks in the near future.
Notably, Payton, who began his career with the Bucks in 2016 before contributing to the Warriors’ 2022 championship run, would bring a defensive presence to Milwaukee’s backcourt. Moreover, his father, Gary Payton, also had a stint with the Bucks. Payton is entering the final year of a $26 million contract.
Meanwhile, NBA Insider Marc Stein reported on trade discussions involving Portis and Grant Williams of the Dallas Mavericks. Although Williams confirmed Milwaukee as a potential destination, the deal ultimately fell through. Stein’s update revealed that the Bucks were unwilling to swap Portis for Williams directly, indicating the need for additional players in the trade.
However, the Bucks face trade restrictions due to entering the NBA’s second salary tax apron. Currently unable to combine salaries in a trade, the Bucks would need to maneuver their roster to facilitate potential deals. Despite the challenges, exploring trades remains a viable option for the Bucks as they strive to strengthen their championship pursuit.
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