Last week, the National Basketball Association (NBA) trade rumor mill swirled with a possible trade involving first-year acquisition Greg Monroe.
Along with Michael Carter-Williams, the rumors did come as a bit of a surprise, considering the big man was one of the prize catches that the Bucks had in the offseason over a bunch of teams which were also in hot pursuit.
A reason seen for a possible trade is that Monroe has struggled to fit into the system of the Bucks, most notably on the defensive side, as cited by Real GM.
But being just in his first year, trade talks involving Monroe may be a bit too early. The same case holds true for Carter-Williams who has been on a slump as well.
Right now, the Bucks are holding a 22–32 record and are only ahead of the Brooklyn Nets (14-40) and the cellar-dwelling Philadelphia 76ers (8–45).
Even though a run at the 2016 NBA All-Star break could improve their chances, there is the Feb. 18 trade deadline to think about. Would dealing Monroe and/or Carter-Williams be a wise decision?
In the event the Bucks do decide to trade either or both players, multiple teams are expected to burn the lines and check out if a trade deal can be worked out. However, dealing away star-caliber players may not be the wisest of options.
Monroe may be a defensive liability but he offsets that with his inside scoring. So if a trade ensues, the Bucks are likely to entertain offers that would allow them to get someone who can do better on both ends — defensive and offensive.
There are players who can do that, but most of them are unlikely to be on the trading block. Singling out Monroe's defensive lapses, other teams may likely pass Monroe up, unless it would be for multiple players of lower caliber and possibly some future draft picks.
