The Milwaukee Bucks have shown significant improvement since a rocky start to the 2024-25 season, and as the trade deadline approaches, the team appears intent on strengthening its roster. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Bucks are highly motivated to execute at least one trade before the upcoming deadline, which is just over a week away.

One potential trade target for Milwaukee could be Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler, who recently expressed dissatisfaction and requested a trade. In order to construct a competitive offer for Butler—or any other player—the Bucks would need to first address the contract of Pat Connaughton, who is signed for three years at a total of $28.271 million. If the Heat are receptive to such a move, unloading Connaughton’s contract might become feasible within a trade for Butler. Additionally, it is important to note that the Bucks’ only tradeable first-round pick is their 2031 selection.

The Bucks possess two players, Khris Middleton and Bobby Portis, who could be attractive to the Heat as they aim to solidify their playoff positioning. With Middleton and Portis on their roster, Miami would likely enhance its chances of remaining competitive in the postseason. Even if Milwaukee cannot secure a high-profile player like Butler, several other options could help elevate the Bucks to a stronger championship contender status. As it stands, Milwaukee sits fourth in the Eastern Conference with a record of 26-18, largely due to the stellar performances of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. Antetokounmpo is delivering an MVP-worthy season, averaging 31.5 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 5.9 assists, while Lillard contributes with 25.5 points and 7.3 assists per game. However, the team’s offensive options beyond these stars are somewhat limited, positioning them to prioritize the acquisition of additional scoring talent as the trade deadline looms.