Locked On NBA – Daily Podcast On The National Basketball Association

Will Bucks Buy or Sell? & Role Player NBA Trade Deadline Targets

Jan 16, 2026

The Milwaukee Bucks face a critical trade deadline—should they rebuild or make a bold move for Giannis? The hosts debate potential roster upgrades and risky trades, including rumors surrounding Ja Morant. They also highlight low-profile yet impactful players like Naji Marshall and Mike Conley that could elevate teams like the Celtics, Hawks, and Warriors. With contenders eyeing the final push, which savvy trades could reshape the playoff landscape? Tune in for engaging insights on strategies that could redefine the NBA's power balance!

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INSIGHT

Bucks Lack A Clear One-Move Fix

The Bucks likely lack a single deadline move that instantly returns them to true contention.
Protecting long-term assets matters more than one desperate short-term splash.

ADVICE

Protect The Pick And Plan Ahead

Do not trade away the Bucks' 2031 first-round pick and other core assets lightly.
Get ahead of Giannis' situation by seeking real rebuild return packages now rather than hoping to recover assets later.

ADVICE

If You Trade Giannis, Reset With Youth

If trading Giannis becomes inevitable, pursue packages of young players and long-term upside.
Swap present star dependence for multiple movable, talented assets to reset the roster.

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The Milwaukee Bucks confront a pivotal deadline: Can any trade move truly sway Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future, or is it time to rebuild? Wes Goldberg, Matt Moore, and Haize debate the Bucks’ best path forward—should they cash in their lone first-round pick, pursue bold roster upgrades, or face reality and initiate a Giannis blockbuster? The panel dissects potential scenarios, including the risk and upside of featuring Ja Morant in the Bucks’ backcourt and weighs the front office’s intent to contend versus long-term security.

Next, focus shifts to role players who could spark a transformation for contenders. Are the Minnesota Timberwolves just a rotation point guard away from the NBA Finals? Which savvy moves could elevate the Boston Celtics, Atlanta Hawks, or Golden State Warriors? The hosts spotlight names like Naji Marshall, Mike Conley, and Quentin Grimes as possible low-profile, high-impact trade targets that could shift the power balance before the deadline hits.

0:00 – Bucks Trade Deadline Dilemma

10:19 – Role Players That Move the Needle

20:46 – Trade Targets & Faves of the Week

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