The Milwaukee Bucks made a pair of trades before the NBA trade deadline on Thursday, with the thought in mind of helping them make a run at this years playoffs.
The most notable deal is the one that sent forwards Hakim Warrick and Joe Alexander to the Chicago Bulls for guard John Salmons. Bucks General Manager John Hammond said Salmons should provide them with some scoring punch.
AUDIO: John Hammond says Salmons should provide scoring punch :07
Salmons is not only committed to the Bucks for the rest of this season, but he has a $5.8-million player option for next season as well.
The Bucks also sent rookie guard Jodie Meeks and center Francisco Elson to Philadelphia and added 6’4 guard Royal Ivey and 7’1 center Primoz Brezec. They also acquired three second round draft picks in the two deals. Hammond said the Bucks weren’t out to dump salaries. These deals were made to make the Bucks a better team.
AUDIO: John Hammond says Bucks want to get better :12
Hammond said while other teams are still working to get ready for 2010 free agency, the Bucks are further ahead.
AUDIO: Hammond says the Bucks are in a good position :21
The Bucks are hoping to have Salmons available for their game tonight against Detroit. Coach Scott Skiles said Salmons could eventually move into the Bucks starting lineup.