Jerami Grant, a player linked to the Milwaukee Bucks in recent trade rumblings, missed the Portland Trail Blazers’ last matchup due to what the team is calling Achilles tendonitis. That injury designation should undoubtedly serve as a warning sign for the Bucks, as tendonitis is typically not a one-and-done issue. It very well could be a lingering issue.

For a Milwaukee Bucks team that needs a shot in the arm, Grant’s latest status certainly makes him more of a risky target and one the team may now want to avoid.

Bucks can’t risk an Achilles issue with their big swing

Injuries have been Milwaukee’s Grim Reaper in recent years. Khris Middleton had countless surgeries. Damian Lillard dealt with a blood clot before tearing his Achilles. Giannis Antetokounmpo has been in and out of the lineup due to various issues. Trading for a player who is out of the lineup due to Achilles tendonitis would certainly be a risk.

Even when healthy, Grant isn’t a perfect target for the Milwaukee Bucks. Yes, he could give them some needed size defensively, and he’s capable of averaging over 20 points on the other end, but it might not justify his $32 million salary this season, $34 million for next season, and $36 million player option for the following year, especially considering that the Bucks may have to trade assets.

Trading for him isn’t the big swing move the Milwaukee Bucks need to make to convince Giannis that they can get back into contention.

Now, the Achilles tendonitis only reinforces that they need to pivot. Injuries have already been a major storyline for Milwaukee this year. As mentioned, Giannis is out. Taurean Prince isn’t coming back soon after undergoing a neck operation. AJ Green missed time with a shoulder injury. Gary Trent Jr. exited Milwaukee’s last game with a calf contusion. The Bucks don’t need to be playing with fire.

Grant isn’t the only “big fish” linked to the Milwaukee Bucks dealing with an injury. Zach LaVine is out with an ankle sprain. Obviously, that’s far less serious than Achilles tendonitis, but the point still lives. Milwaukee will inevitably do something to shake up the roster, but they must understand the risk that comes with trading for players who are battling the injury bug.

There’s no telling what the Milwaukee Bucks will do over the next several months, but they must be careful with injury-related question marks.

Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.