With the regular season approaching, the Milwaukee Bucks needed to trim its roster to 15 players, leaving the front office with a difficult decision. The Bucks ultimately released Kevin Porter Jr., though they reportedly had an opportunity to work out a trade with Denver that would have brought back additional assets.
The Stein Line reported that Milwaukee declined Denver's proposal, though the reason behind the Bucks' decision remains unclear.
Jan 11, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Bruce Brown (11) deflects the shot of Bucks guard Kevin Porter Jr. (7) in the third quarter at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
"The Stein Line has learned that the Nuggets showed a willingness to package two future second-rounders and a second-round pick swap along with Zeke Nnaji's very available contract in a bid to bring Kevin Porter Jr. to the Rocky Mountains," Jake Fischer wrote in his article.
"Yet I'm told that the Bucks ultimately walked away from the Porter-to-Denver discussions as well — and then waived Porter Jr. — because they could not stomach the idea of swallowing Nnaji's $7.5 million salary for the 2027-28 season.
Mar 26, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Bucks guard Kevin Porter Jr. (3) passes the ball as Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) guards in the first quarter at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Milwaukee's reluctance to absorb Nnaji's contract is notable because the Bucks have cap space available next season, meaning the deal would not have significantly affected their financial flexibility. The proposed trade also would have brought them additional draft picks and a pick swap. Their decision to pass could indicate that the front office has other plans for that cap space, potentially involving a major move down the line.
The Bucks' long term plans remain unclear, especially with the team facing an uphill climb back into contention. However, Milwaukee has several young players who could attract interest from other teams and potentially become valuable pieces in a future trade.
Apr 30, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Bucks guard Malik Beasley (5) talks with referee Scott Foster (48) during the third quarter against the Indiana Pacers during game five of the first round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
