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Bucks Conduct Background Work on Zach LaVine as Trade Options Assessed

No deal is imminent given Giannis Antetokounmpo’s pending return plus complex salary-matching hurdles.

Overview

  • The Bucks have performed background due diligence on LaVine and other targets, with reporting stressing the interest is exploratory.
  • Sacramento’s 5–13 start has fueled expectations the Kings could consider moving veterans such as LaVine before the February deadline, per HoopsHype.
  • LaVine’s $47.5 million salary would likely force Milwaukee to package Kyle Kuzma ($22.4 million) with additional contracts, potentially including Bobby Portis ($13.4 million).
  • Milwaukee sits about $11.5 million below the luxury tax line after offseason moves, creating limited flexibility but not enough to easily absorb a max-level deal.
  • The Bucks have also monitored Boston guard Anfernee Simons, whose $27.7 million expiring contract is viewed as a more manageable alternative to LaVine’s deal with a 2026–27 player option.