Bucks predicted to trade $28.2 million NBA champion wing to Hornets

The Milwaukee Bucks and Charlotte Hornets could end up swapping wings in a trade this season, according to a new report.

As the Bucks await the return of All-Star Khris Middleton from injury, Milwaukee could be a little thin on wing versatility, which may lead them out into the trade market.

Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale reported on Saturday that the Bucks have reason to go after Hornets athletic wing Cody Martin, even if it means parting with Pat Connaughton, who won a championship with Milwaukee in 2021.

According to Favale, Charlotte would be interested in such a deal if it can pry a 2031 second-round pick away from the Bucks.

“Milwaukee could use some additional help on the wings even if you don't expect Khris Middleton to miss a ton of time as he recovers from dual-ankle surgery,” Favale said. “Martin's own injury renders him a risk, but it's a measured one.”

“Various knee and ankle injuries have limited him to just 35 games over the past two seasons. When healthy, though, he's a malleable on-ball defender. ... At his peak in 2021-22, Martin also showed that he can knock down spot-up threes and torch defenses as a connective passer and tertiary playmaker.”

“Connaughton is a real rotation player for Milwaukee, so losing him could sting. Especially if Martin winds up back on the shelf. But the latter offers more defensive range, and Connaughton isn't nearly a consistent enough shooter to paint this as a floor-shrinking swap.”

“Martin offers financial optionality moving forward to boot. His $8.6 million salary for 2025-26 is non-guaranteed, while Connaughton holds a $9.4 million player option.”

“Milwaukee Bucks Receive: Cody Martin, 2025 second-round pick (least favorable from Denver, New Orleans and Philadelphia). Charlotte Hornets Receive: Pat Connaughton, 2031 second-round pick.”

Connaughton is in the second year of a three-year, $28.2 million veteran extension he signed with Milwaukee.

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