TITLE: Bucks Explore Trade-Up Options; Hawks Field Offers for No. 23; Kings Keep Sabonis Conversations Alive
SLUG: bucks-draft-move-hawks-23-pick-kings-sabonis
CONTENT:
The Milwaukee Bucks are signaling they may not be satisfied with holding only the No. 10 pick in this month’s NBA Draft, according to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line. Several rival front offices told Fischer they believe Milwaukee is trying to secure a second first-round selection and could attempt to climb higher than No. 10.
Bucks assess top-10 guards
Milwaukee has met with guard Mikel Brown, conducted a workout with Darius Acuff and expressed interest in Keaton Wagler and Kingston Flemings, Fischer reported. All four prospects are projected to be drafted within the top nine selections. One league source suggested the Bucks may simply be preparing in case any of the foursome unexpectedly drops to No. 10, adding that prying a pick in the 5-to-9 range will be difficult. The Clippers (No. 5), Nets (No. 6), Kings (No. 7) and Hawks (No. 8) have indicated they are comfortable staying put, the report states.
Mavericks keep No. 9 in play
The Dallas Mavericks, owners of the No. 9 choice, have informed potential partners they are open to moving either up or down, per Fischer. Teams seeking entry into the top 10 may find Dallas the most willing negotiator.
Hawks shop second first-rounder
While Atlanta shows no desire to part with the eighth overall pick, the franchise is “more than open” to proposals for its other first-round slot at No. 23, league sources told Fischer. The Hawks reportedly prefer to make only one first-round selection on draft night.
Kings weigh Sabonis offers
Sacramento’s recent discussion with Charlotte about three-time All-Star Domantas Sabonis remains in the preliminary stage, Fischer wrote. The Kings hope to obtain either the Hornets’ No. 14 or No. 18 pick, but Charlotte has resisted. If Sacramento does move Sabonis, the club wants to avoid taking back multiyear salary; forward Miles Bridges, who is entering the final year of his contract, is viewed internally as a more palatable salary match.
Sacramento continues to insist on first-round compensation for Sabonis. The team has expressed interest in Toronto’s No. 19 choice, although it is unclear whether the Raptors will revisit talks after exploring a deal before February’s trade deadline.
Fischer’s earlier reporting on Giannis Antetokounmpo was passed along separately earlier in the day.
Source: Hoops Rumors
