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The Milwaukee Bucks are fifth in the Eastern Conference. It has been a decent but unspectacular season following their championship. With the trade deadline a few weeks away, now is their chance to address some needs on the roster.
Brook Lopez's absence has been a burden for Milwaukee. The 33-year-old's shooting and stout interior defense have paired perfectly alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. Unfortunately for the Greek Freak, his frontcourt partner is still out indefinitely with a back injury.
Bobby Portis has been elevated to the starting lineup in Lopez's place and has performed well — scoring 15.1 points and 9.4 rebounds per game, both career highs, while shooting 41.1 percent on 3-pointers. Behind him, though, Milwaukee's center options are bleak. According to Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report, the Bucks want to find a reliable center option before the deadline.
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Uncertainty regarding Brook Lopez's injury status looms over Milwaukee's frontcourt rotation, and the Bucks are poking around for center reinforcements ahead of the deadline, sources told B/R.
Semi Ojeleye is considered available for trade, and rival teams have called about wings Pat Connaughton and Donte DiVencenzo, sources said.
Jalen Smith has been mentioned as a potential trade target.
The Bucks are not alone in their interest in Jalen Smith, as the Boston Celtics have previously shown interest in the young big man. The 21-year-old showed lots of potential in a brief stint as a starter with the Phoenix Suns.
While a center like Myles Turner may be too costly, the Bucks should still look to find a solid option at the center spot. Lopez's contract expires after next season and he may not be the same player following his injury.
