Greg Monroe (Photo : NBAE via Getty Images)
It could only be a matter of time before the Milwaukee Bucks part ways with Greg Monroe.
The Bucks seem inclined in moving Greg Monroe before training camp starts, with Milwaukee looking to move the 26-year-old center "even if they couldn't get fair market value for the big man," reports Gery Woelfel of The Journal Times.
"The consensus among many NBA front office officials was that Monroe wouldn't be with the Bucks when they report to training camp later this month - even if they couldn't get fair market value for the big man," Woelfel wrote.
With training camp right around the corner, the Bucks may decide to keep Monroe for at this point, although that may still change depending on Monroe's performance early in the season. Nevertheless, there should still be teams interested in acquiring Monroe, who struggled to fit in Milwaukee last season.
New Orleans Pelicans
The Pelicans have been rumored as a likely destination for Monroe a few months ago, and many believe the team would be a strong candidate to land the big man during the offseason, according to ESPN's Zach Lowe. But while no deal materialized, there is a possibility the Pelicans and Bucks revisit trade talks for Monroe.
Trading for Monroe would likely require the Pels to give up one of their backcourt pieces to give way for the development of sixth overall Buddy Hield. In a trade scenario that works on ESPN's trade machine, the Pelicans could send Tyreke Evans and Quincy Pondexter to the Bucks for Monroe.
Monroe would give the Pelicans an offensive threat inside the paint, and would allow Anthony Davis to play his natural position at the four spot. Monroe's offensive skill set may not suit well under Alvin Gentry's fast-paced offense, but his presence inside the paint should free up some space for shooters.
Golden State Warriors
The Warriors are one of the few teams who could use some scoring options inside the paint. Despite already possessing arguably the most lethal starting lineup in today's NBA, the Warriors still have plenty of holes to fill after losing some of the key players in free agency.
Known for their notoriously effective small-ball lineup, the Warriors could live through the entire season with Zaza Pachulia as the only legit center in their roster. But during their postseason campaign, including their disappointing Finals loss, the Warriors lack a scoring center who can free up space for the likes of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.
However, the Warriors do not have much assets to acquire Monroe from the Bucks, but if Milwaukee truly intends to unload Monroe even without an equal return, it is something Golden State must consider.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Having the best player in the planet undermines the Cavs' need to retool their lineup, but it is still a move the defending champs should ponder about if they wish for a back-to-back title.
The Cavs were able to secure their most free agent signing this summer after LeBron James agreed on a three-year $99.8 million contract with Cleveland. With their core roster approaching the regular season in full health, the Cavs still have a shot at defending their title, but may fall short to do such feat against revamped teams in the league.
Monroe would be a good addition for the Cavs in terms of scoring and rebounding. His defensive flaws would not be much of a factor for the Cavs similar to the adjustment they made after acquiring Kevin Love.
It is still uncertain whether the Cavs would jump into the chance of acquiring Monroe, but if they do, Love would likely be the centerpiece of any trade deal.
Love would fit well playing alongside the Bucks' core of young talents. His outside shooting would help space the floor and would keep Milwaukee's inside scoring productive.
A straight swap involving Love and Monroe should work, according to ESPN's trade machine, although finding another team could also work for a potential deal involving the Bucks and Cavs.
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