Who has played for the Bucks and the Cavs?

By Edcel Panganiban January 04, 2024 04:43

In the world of professional basketball, players often move between teams throughout their careers. This is especially true for successful players who have the talent and skill to make a significant impact on the court. Two teams that have seen their fair share of player movement are the Milwaukee Bucks and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Over the years, several players have had the opportunity to don the jerseys of both teams, leaving their mark on the franchises and the NBA as a whole. In this article, we will explore some of the notable players who have played for both the Bucks and the Cavs.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

One of the most legendary players in NBA history, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, had the privilege of playing for both the Milwaukee Bucks and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Abdul-Jabbar, known then as Lew Alcindor, was drafted by the Bucks with the first overall pick in the 1969 NBA Draft. During his time with the Bucks, he led the team to its first and only NBA championship in 1971. After six successful seasons in Milwaukee, Abdul-Jabbar was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he continued his illustrious career. However, towards the end of his career, Abdul-Jabbar joined the Cleveland Cavaliers for the 1975-76 season before retiring in 1989.

Vin Baker

Vin Baker, a former NBA All-Star, played for both the Bucks and the Cavaliers during his career. Baker was drafted by the Bucks in 1993 and spent four seasons with the team. Known for his scoring ability and rebounding prowess, he quickly became a fan favorite in Milwaukee. However, Baker's career took a downturn due to personal issues and struggles with substance abuse. After leaving the Bucks, he had stints with several teams, including the Seattle SuperSonics and the Boston Celtics. In 2003, Baker joined the Cleveland Cavaliers but only played 30 games for the team before being released.

Dellavedova and George Hill

In recent years, two notable players who have played for both the Bucks and the Cavaliers are Matthew Dellavedova and George Hill. Dellavedova, an Australian point guard known for his hustle and defensive intensity, first joined the Cavaliers in 2013. He played a key role in the team's championship run in 2016, providing valuable minutes off the bench. In 2018, Dellavedova was traded to the Bucks, reuniting with former teammate LeBron James. However, he returned to the Cavaliers in 2019 and has been with the team since.

George Hill, another point guard, has also played for both the Bucks and the Cavaliers. Hill was acquired by the Cavaliers in a trade with the Sacramento Kings in 2017. He played a crucial role in the team's run to the NBA Finals that year. In 2018, Hill was traded to the Bucks as part of a multi-team deal. He spent one season with the Bucks before being traded back to the Cavaliers in 2019.

Throughout the history of the Milwaukee Bucks and the Cleveland Cavaliers, several notable players have had the opportunity to represent both franchises. From legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to more recent players like Dellavedova and Hill, these athletes have left their mark on the teams and the NBA as a whole. Whether it's winning championships or providing valuable contributions on the court, these players have showcased their talent in the jerseys of both the Bucks and the Cavaliers. As the NBA continues to evolve, it's likely that more players will join the list of those who have played for both teams in the future.