Milwaukee Bucks sixth man Bobby Portis is a fan favorite.

When his name is mentioned, words like energy and hustle come to mind. But could his time with the franchise come to an end this season?

The Bucks are not meeting expectations despite heating up in recent weeks. Their lackluster start puts them at the forefront of trade talks. In some instances, it is them bringing in help around their star players. Other times, it is moving Giannis Anteokoumpo if he wants out.

The Bucks are in a tricky spot as they have little to no leverage. If they want to do anything, Portis will likely come into play.

Still, a recent report from Brett Siegel of Clutch Points shows they’re not yet willing to part ways with him.

“No team has shown interest in making a deal with the Milwaukee Bucks at this time. MarJon Beauchamp ($2.7 million) and Pat Connaughton ($9.4 million) are the two players the Bucks have made available in trade discussions in order to try and add talent on the wing. Veteran forward Torrey Craig from the Chicago Bulls is a player Milwaukee has shown interest in, sources said,” Siegel wrote.

Portis was a member of the Bucks’ 2021 championship team after signing with them in 2020. His efforts throughout the playoffs helped Milwaukee, especially during Antetokounmpo’s absence. The 2020 MVP suffered a knee injury in the Eastern Conference Finals. Portis stepped into the starting role in Game 5 of that series and had 22 points, eight rebounds, and three steals. That game ended with Bucks fans chanting his name.

What Portis brings to the table does not always appear on the stat sheet, but Milwaukee appreciated his talents enough to sign him to a four-year, $49 million contract after their win. Portis is in the third year of that contract and is Milwaukee’s fifth-highest paid player.

The love Milwaukee has for Portis and vice versa is evident. But this business requires tough decisions. Parting with Portis may be the right move, no matter how painful it will be.

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