The Golden State Warriors have agreed to trade Monta Ellis, Ekpe Udoh and Kwame Brown to the Milwaukee Bucks for Andrew Bogut and Stephen Jackson. The trade fills major needs for both teams as they make a final push towards the playoffs. The Bucks who lacked a scoring threat acquire a prolific scorer in Ellis who is averaging 21.9 points and 6 assist this season. Ellis will provide a much needed scoring boost for the Bucks. Golden State has been vying for a big man for many seasons and it's a shame they were forced to part with there best player for Bogut considering his injury history.
Bogut, a former number one overall draft pick in 2005 has dealt with injuries for his entire career. In fact he fractured his left ankle on January 25, and hasn't played since. Bogut also remembered for a horrific arm injury he sustained in 2010 when he crashed to the floor after attempting a breakaway dunk which dislocated his right elbow, sprained his right wrist and broke his right hand. The injury hampered him throughout the following season. Add the back problems that have hindered him throughout his career too. When healthy Bogut can be a serviceable center which is what Golden State is hoping for.
Stephen Jackson wanted out of Milwaukee and did not hide the fact that he was disgruntled. Bucks Head Coach Scott Skiles benched Jackson due to inconsistent play and off the court matters. Jackson was brought to Milwaukee during the off-season to be that prolific scorer the Bucks needed, it never materialized. I don't think Brandon Jennings will have any problem deferring to Ellis either, and maybe Jackson will have a resurgence in his second stint with the Warriors. Ekpe Udoh and Kwame Brown will add bench power for the Bucks, though Kwame Brown another former number onel pick is likely out out for the rest of the season with a chest injury. I thought the Warriors had high expectations for Udoh since he was drafted sixth overall in 2010 but only in his second season the Warriors included him in this trade.
Once Bogut gets back on the court we can determine which team got the edge in this trade. I don't believe there will be a clear cut winner because both teams filled a glaring need. Unless Bogut is unable to play this was good trade for both teams.
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