The 2026 NBA Trade Deadline looms large for the Milwaukee Bucks. This roster, which has struggled mightily this season (especially in games without its star), needs a significant shake-up. Giannis has come out and said that he is committed, so changes are on the horizon. These four players are the most likely to be on the move when the clock strikes 3 pm ET on February 5.
Kyle Kuzma
Kuzma has been the one player most discussed, dating back to the offseason. The fit since acquiring Kuzma at last year’s deadline has been clunky. This year, he has performed better than last season since coming off the bench. However, his inconsistent play, lack of three-point shooting, and large salary ($22 million this season) make him a likely player to be on the move.
Jerami Grant has been a name mentioned as a potential Bucks target. To make a deal work, Kuzma and at least one other player will likely be involved. The benefit to this is that Grant provides much-needed help at the wing position and would likely be a better fit than Kuzma has been in that slot.
Bobby Portis
Bobby Portis, despite being a fan favorite off the bench, may also be on the move. He, even more so than Kuzma, has been a liability, especially on the defensive end. In years past, Portis’s offensive output has been able to make up for his shaky defense. With a much more shorthanded roster, the margin for error is thinner than ever before, and the team can’t afford a big man that doesn’t rebound or defend consistently.
Portis would likely be packaged with Kuzma if Milwaukee traded for any of the large names on the market (Davis, Morant, LaVine, etc.). Whatever trade they were to make, getting back some depth in the frontcourt will be needed. They would need someone who rebounds well and can stretch the floor.
Kevin Porter Jr.
Kevin Porter Jr. is probably the most controversial player on this list. He has been one of the Bucks’ bright spots this season and has exceeded expectations. With that in mind, perhaps trading Porter at his peak value might be the best move for this team. He has a player option this summer, which he could decline and hit the market. Ryan Rollins has also had a breakout season for the team and may be the long-term answer at the point guard spot. This makes Porter expendable.
Porter is likely to act as a sweetener in any deal strictly because of the size of his contract ($5 million). There is a clear upside with Kevin Porter Jr., an upside that the Milwaukee Bucks have enjoyed since he arrived last season. That upside may be enough to help facilitate a deal that otherwise might not get done.
Gary Harris
Gary Harris, for no other reason than his salary, is what makes him likely to be moved. He is making just over $3.6 million this season (slightly more than other players at his level on the roster) with a player option for next year. In trades, players like Harris are often thrown in to make the salary work.
This team needs to make changes to help its defense, rebounding, and assist in minutes when Giannis is not on the court. Ideally, a trade brings in a wing that can create their own shot or is at least a good three-and-D type of player. It should be an eventful couple of weeks, so buckle up, Bucks fans!
