5 Players who might replace P.J. Tucker before the trade deadline

4. Pat Connaughton

Tucker was a key part of the Bucks championship run in 2021. He guarded Kevin Durant throughout that series against the Nets and KD's toe on the 3-point line saved Milwaukee. The 6’5 forward will play stout defense and never command the ball.

The Bucks need Tucker after trading for Damian Lillard. They have plenty of scoring and shot creation but are searching for defense. Milwaukee is 22nd in defensive rating after 24 games, despite being one of the top teams under Mike Budenholzer. If the Bucks are going to add Tucker, they would need to find matching salary to complete the deal.

Trading Pat Connaughton is the most likely option. He is just starting a three-year $28.2 million contract but has played just 23.1 minutes per game this season. The 6’5 wing is struggling to make shots and his production has slipped on both ends of the floor.

The Bucks went virtually all-in to acquire Dame, but they still have two second-round picks and three secondary first-round pick swaps to offer. It is not a ton, but getting P.J. Tucker out of LA could be worth taking on Connaughton and figuring out how to maximize his talent. Consider this one unlikely, but the Bucks will call and ask about Tucker returning to Cream City.