The biggest move the Milwaukee Bucks made ahead of the NBA trade deadline was to send Khris Middleton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Kyle Kuzma. Of course, that particular move received the most attention due to Middleton’s status as one of the greatest players in Bucks franchise history.

Mar 15, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) shoots during the third quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

But the Middleton trade was not the only one Milwaukee made. Additionally, the Bucks sent Delon Wright to the New York Knicks for Jericho Sims, and MarJon Beauchamp to the Los Angeles Clippers for Kevin Porter Jr.

All three trades have significantly impact the Bucks’ roster in various ways. However, it was the addition of Porter that has allowed All-Star point guard Damian Lillard to do something that he loves late in games.

Milwaukee Bucks All-Star Damian Lillard Loves that Kevin Porter Jr. Allows Him to Play Off Ball

Mar 11, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith (23) shoots the ball while Milwaukee Bucks guard Kevin Porter Jr. (3) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski

Since joining Milwaukee at the trade deadline, Porter is averaging 10.2 points, 3.1 rebounds. 3.2 assists, and 1.3 steals per game off of the bench. His presence is felt especially when other bench players are on the floor, as he is able to facilitate the offense, create his own shot, and create scoring opportunities for others.

In recent games, he has been on the floor late in the fourth quarter with Bucks stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Lillard. Many times, it is Porter who is bringing the ball up the court instead of the two superstars.

And while many fans may not like this fact, Lillard actually loves it:

“My biggest joy is being able to play off the ball and not be on the ball so much. That’s gonna be a weapon for us in the playoffs,” Lillard said.

In the video, the nine-time All-Star explains that being able to take a break from being the primary ball-handler late in games allows him to conserve his energy better. He also talked about how much he loved playing that way last season after the Bucks added Patrick Beverley.

Most importantly, though, Lillard talked about how Porter will be a valuable weapon for them in the playoffs. The entire reason Jon Horst made every trade that he did was to set up Milwaukee for an NBA Finals run.

Hopefully it works out.