NBA Rumors: Bucks Exploring Trades for Jimmy Butler, Zach LaVine and Bradley Beal

The Milwaukee Bucks are reportedly eyeing potential trades for a veteran wing ahead of the Feb. 6 deadline.

According to The Athletic's Sam Vecenie, the Bucks "are thought to have interest in at least exploring what deals could look like for" Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler, Chicago Bulls star Zach LaVine and Phoenix Suns star Bradley Beal.

Milwaukee ranks fourth in the Eastern Conference with a 24-17 record. The team had some inconsistencies after defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder to win the NBA Cup championship, but it seems to have gotten back on track with four straight wins entering Thursday night's game against the Heat.

While Bucks stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard have performed at All-Star levels this season, they've lacked a consistent third option. Veteran forward Khris Middleton was forced to miss the start of the season after recovering from surgery on both his ankles and is still rounding into form.

Vecenie pointed out that Milwaukee's pursuit of Butler, LaVine or Beal would likely require them to give up Middleton, and he expressed skepticism that the team would be willing to do that.

"If they were to decide to make a deal for any of those players, Middleton's contract would have to be involved financially for them to get under the CBA's second apron and have the flexibility to make such a deal," Vecenie wrote. "If the choice is between Middleton or Butler, I get it. But if it's Middleton and other players for Beal, I'd probably just rather take the chance that Middleton is right for the playoffs."