Towards the beginning of last season, Milwaukee Bucks head coach Jason Kidd made it known that point guard Michael Carter-Williams would no longer be starting. Since then, Carter-Williams’ future role with the team would be in question, especially given the new point guard responsibilities assigned to Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Recently it was reported that the Bucks were discussing a trade that would possibly send Carter-Williams to Sacramento in order to acquire Ben McLemore. Bucks head coach Jason Kidd talked to Sirius XM NBA Radio about Carter-Williams
Kidd: Rumors, that’s just part of this business… We’re happy with Michael, he’s had a great summer, and he’s worked extremely hard.. It showed in the first game in Chicago, he came off the bench and I think he led us in rebounds. Michael can be one of the best wing defenders in this league. He helped us late in the game, running the team at the point guard position. There’s always speculation around different guys, but I think Michael is gonna help us win”.
Despite the speculation, it seems that Kidd still has plans for Carter-Williams in the Bucks system. He certainly fits the mold as far as length is concerned as a 6-foot-7 guard, he’s just yet to ascend to a level where these trade rumors would never occur in the first place. Kidd clearly believes that Carter-Williams can have a tremendous impact defensively. He may have more of an opportunity, perhaps even back in the starting lineup, given the hamstring injury to Khris Middleton. Despite what Kidd feels about his potential, it’s still entirely possible that the Bucks use Carter-Williams as a trade chip during the season, particularly if his production increases and the value of his services becomes more tangible to other teams. For now, Kidd appears intent on keeping him as an asset in Milwaukee.
