Projected Starting Lineups After the Trade
Milwaukee Bucks:
PG: Damian Lillard
SG: Gary Trent Jr.
SF: Khris Middleton
PF: Giannis Antetokounmpo
C: Brook Lopez
Golden State Warriors:
PG: Stephen Curry
SG: Brandin Podziemski
SF: Andrew Wiggins
PF: Draymond Green
C: Bobby Portis
Portland Trail Blazers:
PG: Anfernee Simons
SG: Shaedon Sharpe
SF: Deni Avdija
PF: Jerami Grant
C: DeAndre Ayton
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 to the Golden State the bench. His shooting and athleticism fit well in Golden State’s system, and he provides depth behind the wings. 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. His contract is expiring, but the Bucks will hold his RFA rights.
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. On top of that, this trade would bring Looney home as he was born and raised in Milwaukee.
The Bucks also pick up two Atlanta 2nd round picks as well as getting the more favorable 2nd round pick in a 2031 swap from Golden State. Minnesota has first dibs to swap that pick and once that’s completed, the Bucks have the choice to swap from there.
Portland Trail Blazers' Perspective
Portland acquires MarJon Beauchamp, a young wing with strong defensive potential and upside as a transition scorer. Given their focus on development and youth, Beauchamp fits their timeline and provides another versatile piece alongside their core. Adding him and an additional 2029 second-round pick strengthens their long-term flexibility without sacrificing any key assets in the present. Beauchamp's defensive upside and athleticism align well with the Blazers' future vision.
Final Thoughts
This trade enhances the championship outlook for both the Bucks and Warriors while providing the Blazers with more young talent and picks for their rebuild. The Warriors get the spacing and frontcourt depth they need, while Milwaukee gains defense, versatility, and future assets. Portland continues its youth movement, betting on Beauchamp’s potential.
Overall, this trade offers benefits across the board with each team addressing its specific needs while remaining competitive in their respective pursuits.
