In a stunning twist that’s shaking up the NBA offseason, reports have surfaced that the Milwaukee Bucks are seriously considering replacing All-Star guard Damian Lillard with veteran point guard Chris Paul — who turns 40 next year. While the idea may sound shocking at first, there are deeper layers to this potential move that shed light on the Bucks’ current priorities and long-term strategy.
A Disappointing Season for Lillard and the Bucks
When the Bucks acquired Damian Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers in a blockbuster trade in 2023, expectations skyrocketed. Pairing Lillard with Giannis Antetokounmpo was supposed to usher in a new era of dominance in the Eastern Conference. However, reality hit hard. The Bucks struggled with chemistry and consistency throughout the season, and a first-round playoff exit underscored that the experiment had fallen short of expectations.
Lillard, despite averaging solid numbers, often appeared out of rhythm within the Bucks’ system, and questions arose about his defensive fit and ability to play off-ball alongside Giannis. Injuries and coaching changes only made things worse, leaving the front office with difficult decisions heading into the 2025–26 season.
Why Chris Paul?
On the surface, replacing a younger, high-scoring star like Lillard with a 40-year-old point guard might seem counterintuitive. But Chris Paul brings elements the Bucks desperately need — leadership, ball control, and a pass-first mentality that could maximize Giannis’s effectiveness.
Paul, who was recently waived by the Golden State Warriors, has made it clear he still wants to compete for a championship. Though age has slowed his pace, CP3 remains one of the smartest floor generals in the league. His ability to orchestrate an offense, limit turnovers, and control tempo could provide the kind of stability the Bucks lacked last season.
Financial and Strategic Flexibility
Another key reason behind the Bucks’ reported interest is financial flexibility. Lillard is on a massive contract, owed over $45 million annually through 2027. Moving him would free up cap space and give Milwaukee room to retool around Giannis. Chris Paul, likely to sign on a veteran minimum or short-term deal, would be a much cheaper alternative, potentially allowing the Bucks to pursue other supporting pieces in free agency.
The Risks and Rewards
Of course, this move would not come without risks. Chris Paul’s durability is a constant concern, and he has a history of injuries in the postseason. Moreover, betting on a 40-year-old to lead a title-contending team in the modern NBA is a rare and bold gamble.
However, if Paul can stay healthy and buy into a limited, mentor-like role while helping facilitate the offense, he could elevate the Bucks’ ceiling in ways Lillard hasn’t been able to — especially when it comes to team chemistry and late-game execution.
What’s Next?
As of now, no official trade discussions have been confirmed, but league insiders suggest the Bucks are actively exploring options to reshape their backcourt. Whether that results in a blockbuster trade involving Lillard or a surprise signing of Chris Paul remains to be seen.
One thing is clear: the Milwaukee Bucks are in win-now mode. With Giannis in his prime and the window for a title still open, they are willing to consider unconventional moves to get back to the top — even if it means betting on a 40-year-old legend with something left to prove.
