Bucks Zone

An updated look at the Milwaukee Bucks roster after the Damian Lillard trade

The Bucks look brand new.

Jonas Panerio

© Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
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While the talk around Milwaukee has been about the addition of spectacular guard Damian Lillard, one must also talk about which players the Bucks gave up to acquire the seven-time All-Star. Gone are starting point guard Jrue Holiday and rugged wingman Grayson Allen, along with draft picks in 2028, 2029, and 2030.

These changes alter the makeup of the Bucks entirely, as the losses of Holiday and Allen drastically lower their defensive aptitude. However, having Lillard onboard brings a whole new element to Milwaukee’s offense. His ability to create shots for himself and others will open up opportunities not there before, and his shooting prowess from deep will be hard to match in the Eastern Conference.

The starting lineup

It remains to be seen how new coach Adrian Griffin will utilize his new-look roster, but it is reasonable to assume that the Bucks will feature a starting lineup of Lillard, Khris Middleton, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Brook Lopez, and the newly acquired Malik Beasley. 

The former Los Angeles Laker will fit right into the starting five, as his proficiency with the three-ball will help make opposing defenses pay when they collapse on Giannis or Dame.

The rotation

Lost in the hullabaloo regarding Lillard’s arrival is the fact that the Bucks still don’t have a legitimate backup point guard. The depth behind Lillard remains shallow, with untested guards AJ Green, Lindell Wigginton, and Andre Jackson Jr. all competing for minutes.

Expected to crowd Beasley for minutes at the two are Pat Connaughton and young MarJon Beauchamp. Backing Middleton up is Jae Crowder, while Giannis’ older brother Thanasis is on the depth chart at the four. Sixth man Bobby Portis will retain his role backing up Brook Lopez, while Robin Lopez is the third center.

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Jonas Panerio
JONAS PANERIO