The signs appear to be clear for Bobby Portis and his tenure with the Bucks. After three seasons of heart and hustle, the fan-favorite big man could be on his way to better pastures – or an early trade exit.

Portis signed a two-year, $7.4 million contract with the Bucks in 2020 (with a player option in the second year). It was a modest contract for a player that gave instant impact and toughness to a team that needed both. His contributions during the Bucks’ 2021 championship run made him a Milwaukee hero with “Bobby, Bobby!” Chants become a regular feature in the Fiserv Forum.

After exercising his player option following the championship, Portis re-joined the Bucks in 2022, signing a team-friendly, four-year, $48.6 million contract. That contract included a $13.45 million player option for 2025, but Portis’ recent antics — like his cash signing celebrations in the preseason — suggest he’s preparing to exit for a bigger win achieve.

While Portis has been a valuable piece for Milwaukee, cracks are already starting to show in his fit with the team.

Defensively, he has a hard time containing ball handlers, which makes him a liability in some playoff games. It is an error that has resulted in shortened minutes in critical series. On offense, Portis provides impact off the bench and can carry units in bursts, but his tendency to hold the ball disrupts the flow of the second unit.

With Portis’ player option looming, the Bucks could decide to act preemptively and explore a trade before the deadline. Teams that need to score points and be tough could see him as an asset, especially on an expiring contract.

As the saying goes, “You either die a hero or you live long enough to see yourself become a villain.” While Portis’ departure wouldn’t make him a villain, it would be a bittersweet end to one of Milwaukee’s most beloved chapters.