The Milwaukee Bucks have quietly explored adding scoring punch in the wake of swirling trade talks around Giannis Antetokounmpo, with Cam Thomas and D’Angelo Russell both reportedly on their radar, according to NBA insider Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. The Bucks are pursuing upgrades that fit under their luxury‑tax room and could either provide upside or draft capital, league sources said.
Thomas, 24, is averaging 16.1 points in 24.3 minutes per game for the Brooklyn Nets on a one‑year, $6 million contract, and would need to approve a move due to his no‑trade clause. Russell, 29, with the Dallas Mavericks, carries a two‑year, $11.6 million deal that includes a player option for the second season, making him an intriguing fit for Milwaukee’s backcourt.
Milwaukee (18‑28) sits outside the playoff picture in the Eastern Conference. Adding a proven shot creator like Thomas or Russell could bolster a supporting cast that already includes Kevin Porter Jr. (16.8 PPG) and Ryan Rollins (16.3 PPG).
Thomas would bring dynamic scoring off the bench, shooting 31.8% on 4.9 three‑point attempts per game this season, while Russell offers veteran playmaking and spacing, averaging 10.2 points and 4.0 assists in roughly 19 minutes per game.
Any trade for Russell would likely involve Milwaukee sending draft capital while offering Dallas salary relief toward the luxury tax and clearing the Mavericks of Russell’s player option for next season, league sources said.
Thomas’ no‑trade clause gives him control over his destination, which could complicate negotiations.
