Projected Starting Lineups
Milwaukee Bucks:
G: Damian Lillard
G: Gary Trent Jr.
F: Khris Middleton
F: Giannis Antetokounmpo
C: Brook Lopez
Golden State Warriors:
G: Stephen Curry
G: Brandin Podziemski
F: Andrew Wiggins or Jonathan Kuminga
F: Draymond Green
C: Bobby Portis or Trayce Jackson-Davis
Toronto Raptors:
G: Immanuel Quickley
G: RJ Barrett
F: Gradey Dick or Bruce Brown Jr.
F: Scottie Barnes
C: Jakob Poeltl
Impact of the Trade
Golden State Warriors' Perspective
The Warriors acquire Bobby Portis, a versatile big who provides an immediate scoring punch, floor spacing, and rebounding presence. Portis fits seamlessly next to Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. His ability to knock down perimeter shots spaces the floor, while his toughness and energy help balance the interior. Defensively, Portis isn’t as switchable as Looney, but he can handle physical matchups in the paint. Alongside Draymond, the Warriors now have a frontcourt that blends toughness, rebounding, and offensive versatility.
Pat Connaughton adds a 3-and-D option off the bench who can contribute in playoff scenarios. His shooting and athleticism fit well in Golden State’s system, and he provides depth behind Andrew Wiggins and Jonathan Kuminga. Connaughton's playoff experience and hustle will be valuable as the Warriors continue to contend.
Milwaukee Bucks' Perspective
Milwaukee bolsters its defense and depth with the additions of Gary Payton II, Moses Moody, and Kevon Looney.
Gary Payton II returns to Milwaukee as an elite perimeter defender and slasher. He immediately strengthens the Bucks’ backcourt defense and provides a low-usage, high-energy presence who can guard multiple positions. His familiarity with Milwaukee’s system and his chemistry with their stars make him an impactful rotational piece.
Moses Moody is a promising young wing who can grow into a 3-and-D role. With Khris Middleton aging, Moody represents a future asset who can develop into a key contributor in the coming years. His ability to hit spot-up threes and defend is a perfect fit for the Bucks' needs.
Kevon Looney adds a battle-tested, versatile big man who thrives in dirty work roles. He’s a smart defender, elite rebounder, and valuable screen setter. Looney gives Milwaukee frontcourt insurance, especially when Brook Lopez needs rest or against switch-heavy defenses. His experience in playoff battles adds even more grit to an already tough Bucks team.
Toronto Raptors' Perspective
The Raptors continue their strategy of accumulating future assets with the addition of MarJon Beauchamp and multiple draft picks.
MarJon Beauchamp represents a promising young talent who fits Toronto's long-term vision. His athleticism, defensive potential, and scoring ability make him a valuable asset for the future. Beauchamp's versatility allows him to contribute on both ends of the floor and fit into Toronto's development-focused approach. His growth potential aligns with the Raptors' aim to build around young, high-upside players.
By securing additional second-round picks and a favorable pick swap, the Raptors reinforce their commitment to future flexibility. The 2026 second-round pick and the most favorable 2031 pick swap enhance Toronto’s draft assets, offering more opportunities to find and develop talent. This continues the trend of stockpiling picks that began with the trades of Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby. The strategy aims to ensure a strong future pipeline of talent and potential trade assets.
Summary
Overall, this trade benefits each team by addressing specific needs and future strategies. Milwaukee boosts their defensive capabilities and adds depth, Golden State gains versatile players to fit their system, and Toronto continues to enhance their future flexibility.
