The trade deadline is coming closer by the day. Teams are making the necessary space to add much-needed talent. Likewise, the Milwaukee Bucks are in midst of taking a huge decision. Notably, their 14-season NBA veteran Serge Ibaka and the franchise have agreed to go in separate directions. Moreover, there is a buzz around him potentially joining Stephen Curry.
Ibaka joined the Bucks last season during the trade deadline from the Los Angeles Clippers. After showing impactful signs as a backup big in the absence of Brook Lopez, he earned a one-year extension with the 2021 champions. However, the hopes of him settling with Mike Budenholzer’s rotations haven’t gone to plan. The three-time All-Defensive center has played in just 16 of the 45 games this season.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
In addition, the 2019 NBA champion has been away for “personal reasons”. After his absence, it seems the Bucks and Ibaka are parting ways according to Shams Charania.
Will Serge Ibaka join Stephen Curry and the Warriors?
Before the season, the 14-season veteran set high expectations for his stint with the Deer District. However, the time has said otherwise. The 33-year-old center has failed to fit into the Bucks’ 3 big man rotation. Notably, Lopez and Bobby Portis share a similar dynamic for the position. With his role, Ibaka can arguably not replicate what Giannis Antetokounmpo does for the Bucks. Likewise, recent reports suggest Milwaukee will be finding a new home for the center.
READ MORE–“Everyone Outside the Warriors Is Laughing at This”: Stephen Curry and Co. Accused of ‘Ruining a Career’ with Big Trade Decision
Reacting to the news, NBA Twitter had several opinions. Some felt Antetokounmpo’s diss on Ibaka’s show is the reason. On the other hand, some are linking the big man to the Golden State Warriors and Phoenix Suns.
He’s tired of Giannis roasting him
— Playmaker Hoops (@HoopsPlaymaker) January 20, 2023
Ibaka for Crowder? Who says, "no"?
— John Voita (@DarthVoita) January 20, 2023
Jaymychal Green +2nd round pick for Ibaka it is.
— ROC. (@rockyrunrun) January 20, 2023
GSW needs to give up a few picks for him and sign Boogie to solidify rebounding and intelligence
— BattleRapStats: bars.battlerapstats.com (@BattleRapStats) January 20, 2023
PLEASE @warriors https://t.co/aK0HLevJoj
— Carlos Murillo (@LosMurillo126) January 20, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
GOLDEN STATE https://t.co/x3lDiLxDPU
— ً (@BannedHrs) January 20, 2023
Stephen Curry and the Warriors have struggled at the five this season. Notably, both their backups are currently injured. With plans of maybe moving JaMychal Green, Ibaka’s defensive presence might help the defending champions. On the other hand, Milwaukee has been in talks with the Suns inquiring about Jae Crowder. His tense situation continues to be alive. Likewise, a swap could help Antetokounmpo and Co. With Khris Middleton in and out of action, a 3 and-D kind of star might add a much-needed dimension to their roster.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Watch This Story – Stephen Curry, Anthony Davis, Zion Williamson: Injury Details, Return Dates
Where do you think will Ibaka go next? Let us know your views in the comments below.