Massive Trade Proposal Sees Bucks Land Star Forward from Eastern Rival
The Milwaukee Bucks face growing uncertainty regarding their future with All-Star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, especially with the team’s recent struggles in the playoffs, having been eliminated in the first round for three straight years. Despite lacking many trade assets for high-profile players, the Bucks have shown a commitment to building around Giannis rather than trading their best player away.
NBA insider Zach Kram proposed a bold move for the Bucks to acquire Brooklyn Nets forward Cameron Johnson this offseason. In return, Milwaukee would send forward Kyle Kuzma, a 2031 first-round pick, and a 2032 first-round swap to the Nets.
This potential deal would allow the Bucks to keep Giannis while compensating for the loss of three-time All-Star Khris Middleton, whom they traded to the Washington Wizards for Kuzma at last season’s trade deadline.
Johnson, who averaged 18.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game last season, could be a strong addition for Milwaukee. The 2019 No. 11 overall pick also posted impressive shooting numbers, including a 47.5% field goal percentage and a 39% three-point shooting rate in 2025.
The Bucks are especially interested in Johnson’s sharp shooting, which would complement Giannis’ playstyle. However, it may be challenging for the Nets to part with him for a relatively modest return, given Johnson’s value on the trade market.
The Bucks acquired Kuzma at last season’s trade deadline, hoping his addition would push them back to the NBA Finals. But Kuzma’s performance, especially in the playoffs against the Indiana Pacers, was disappointing. He posted a lowly 34.3% field goal percentage and 20% from three-point range in that series.
Kuzma is also on a significant four-year, $102 million contract, with a $22 million salary next season and $20 million the following year. His regular season numbers in 2025 (14.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists per game) were notably down from the previous season, where he averaged 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game.
Nevertheless, the Bucks’ offer of future first-round picks could be enough to persuade Brooklyn to consider this trade.
Leave a Reply