NBA

Milwaukee Bucks backed to win NBA title thanks to Giannis, Lillard partnership

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 07:14 - 15 October 2023

Damian Lillard's trade to the Milwaukee Bucks has made the team title favourites according to legendary NBA star Kevin Garnett.

The blockbuster three-team trade that sent Damian Lillard from Portland to Milwaukee has shifted the landscape of the NBA making the Bucks early favourites.

Lillard makes Bucks favourites

According to ESPN, the Bucks have now moved ahead of the Denver Nuggets and the Phoenix Suns as favourites for the 2023-24 NBA title.

Legendary former Celtics and Timberwolves star Kevin Garnett believes the Bucks will win the chip come end of the season.

"If [the Bucks] don't win this year, I will be very shocked... Giannis and [Damian Lillard] are going to appreciate each other... I would take Dame's offense in front of Jrue Holiday's defense."

—Kevin Garnett 🗣

(via @shobasketball)pic.twitter.com/TgPpRzLYJG
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) October 10, 2023

"We have to be on the same page. I want him to be the primary point guard... This is not in no shape or form any competition between me & him of who's going to have the ball more... We're gonna let Dame be Dame."

Giannis on Damian Lillard.

(via @Bucks)pic.twitter.com/xEiaoEE7pK
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) October 8, 2023

Here is the full breakdown of the trade.

Portland will receive Jrue Holiday, Deandre Ayton, Toumani Camara, Milwaukee's 2029 unprotected first-round draft pick, and unprotected Milwaukee swap rights in 2028 and 2030.

The Suns will receive Jusuf Nurkic, Grayson Allen, Nassir Little, and Keon Johnson.