Trade Rumors Swirl! Bucks Eye 43-Point Scorer—Eui-sik Choi's Mentor Could Be on the Move

The Brooklyn Nets have had a respectable start to the season, sitting at 8-10 and holding the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference. Despite their competitive record, whispers around the league suggest the team has its eyes set on the future, with Cooper Flagg, the projected No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, being an enticing long-term prospect. As such, the Nets have seemingly turned into a trade hub, with numerous players rumored to be on the move.

At the center of these rumors is Cam Thomas, Brooklyn’s rising star and most valuable trade asset. The 22-year-old guard has been electrifying this season, averaging 24.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, including a 43-point explosion earlier in the year. His shooting splits—45.8% from the field and 38.7% from three—underscore his elite scoring ability.

Bucks Interested in Cam Thomas, But It’ll Cost Middleton

According to NBA insider B. Robinson, the Milwaukee Bucks have expressed serious interest in acquiring Thomas. However, to make this deal a reality, the Bucks would need to part ways with one of their cornerstone pieces: Khris Middleton. The veteran guard-forward has been instrumental in Milwaukee’s championship success, but injuries and age have raised questions about his long-term value.

While the Bucks adding Thomas could bolster their offensive firepower alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, trading Middleton would not come without risks. Middleton’s playoff experience and two-way capabilities are a critical part of Milwaukee’s DNA, and parting with him could disrupt team chemistry.

Lakers Eyeing Finney-Smith and Cam Johnson

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers have also been closely monitoring Brooklyn’s roster as trade talks heat up. Team insiders report that the Lakers are particularly interested in acquiring Dorian Finney-Smith and Cameron Johnson, two versatile forwards who could add depth to their rotation.

The Lakers’ interest in Finney-Smith appears to be longstanding, with discussions reportedly dating back to last season. While the Lakers’ frontcourt is solid with LeBron James and Rui Hachimura, their lack of big men is glaring. With only Anthony Davis and Colin Castleton (on a two-way contract) available in the paint due to injuries to Jaxson Hayes and Christian Wood, the team is visibly thin in the center position. However, adding forwards like Finney-Smith or Johnson would give them flexibility to mix and match lineups.

What This Means for Eui-sik Choi

For Eui-sik Choi, the Nets’ 2023 undrafted rookie, these potential trades could open up new opportunities. Both Finney-Smith and Johnson currently occupy key minutes on the wings, directly competing with Choi’s position. If both are moved, Choi could see a significant increase in playing time and a chance to prove himself on the NBA stage.

Right now, Choi’s role on the Nets is minimal. He has appeared in just three games this season, logging under five total minutes and scoring one point. However, he’s been more active in the G League, playing two games with 9 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists over 32 minutes.

Despite his limited production, Choi is undoubtedly at the bottom of the statistical rankings among the 30 first-year G League players on two-way contracts this season. His scoring average and efficiency leave much to be desired, underscoring the uphill battle he faces to secure a regular NBA role.

A Special Moment: The “China Derby”

A notable highlight for Choi came during the Nets’ 128-120 victory over the Golden State Warriors, which marked a rare meeting between Choi and his Chinese national team teammate, Kyle Lee. While Choi didn’t see any action in the game, Lee logged 14 minutes, finishing with 4 points, 2 rebounds, and 3 assists.

The encounter showcased a heartwarming moment between the two, as they exchanged greetings and shared a camaraderie reflective of their shared national team experiences. Though some fans referred to this as a “China Derby,” it was more symbolic than competitive, as Choi’s minutes were nonexistent.

Looking Ahead

As trade rumors continue to swirl around the Nets, the futures of Cam Thomas, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Cameron Johnson remain uncertain. For Choi, these developments could either be a curse or a blessing, depending on how Brooklyn decides to reshape its roster.

The bigger question is whether Choi and Kyle Lee will get another chance to play alongside each other on the Chinese national team. For now, fans can only speculate, but one thing is clear: Choi’s journey in the NBA is just beginning, and his story is far from written.