Giannis Antetokounmpo trade buzz draws interest from Knicks, Spurs, Thunder, Rockets
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Several NBA teams are closely monitoring Giannis Antetokounmpo’s situation in Milwaukee, league sources told multiple outlets. The New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs are expected to make aggressive trade offers if the Bucks signal any willingness to move the two-time MVP, while the Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets are also viewed as likely bidders.
Knicks and Spurs out front
The Knicks previously explored an Antetokounmpo deal with Milwaukee before the season and remain highly interested, according to DallasHoopsJournal’s Ashish Mathur. New York, currently 13-7, believes one additional superstar could push the franchise to its first Eastern Conference title since the 1990s.
San Antonio has reportedly stockpiled assets with Antetokounmpo in mind, passing on last year’s Kevin Durant sweepstakes to keep its draft capital intact. A possible Spurs package could feature multiple first-round picks along with young players such as Devin Vassell, Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle, sources said.
Thunder, Rockets also positioned
Rival executives told Hoops Wire the Thunder and Rockets possess the draft picks and young talent needed to compete with any offer. Both teams are considered well-prepared should Milwaukee entertain proposals.
Antetokounmpo’s contract and Bucks’ struggles
The 2021 Finals MVP is earning $54.1 million this season and holds a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28. His deal does not include a no-trade clause, making a potential move procedurally straightforward if he requests one.
Milwaukee has fallen to 9-13 after dropping eight of its last nine games, slipping to 11th place in the Eastern Conference. Sources say the losing streak has frustrated Antetokounmpo, though the Bucks have maintained they will not trade their franchise cornerstone unless he asks to leave.
Antetokounmpo, 29, has already collected two MVP awards, one Defensive Player of the Year, a Finals MVP and a 2021 championship. He recently became the sixth-youngest player in league history to surpass 21,000 career points, joining LeBron James, Wilt Chamberlain, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant and Michael Jordan.
For now, front offices in New York, San Antonio, Oklahoma City and Houston continue to monitor the Bucks, ready to act should the organization open the door to negotiations.
Source: Hoops Wire
