Any signal from the Milwaukee Bucks that they are willing to discuss a Giannis Antetokounmpo trade would immediately open the door to every contender, eliminating the New York Knicks’ perceived head start, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
League sources told ESPN that Antetokounmpo placed the Knicks at the top of his preferred destinations before the season, and the two sides nearly completed a deal at that time. New York went on to reach the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000.
Milwaukee, meanwhile, has exited in the first round three consecutive years and has not won a playoff series since capturing the 2021 NBA title. That stretch has weighed on the two-time MVP, who has repeatedly emphasized his desire to remain in championship contention, sources said.
Contract and trade considerations
Antetokounmpo is earning $54.1 million this season and holds a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28. His contract does not include a no-trade clause, giving the Bucks full control over any potential move.
If New York re-enters talks, the franchise would almost certainly have to include Karl-Anthony Towns—acquired to help anchor a contender—as the focal point of any offer for the 2021 Finals MVP, according to ESPN.
On-court production remains elite
The 29-year-old forward is averaging 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds and 6.1 assists while shooting nearly 64 percent from the field, despite working back from a right calf strain.
One source with direct knowledge of Milwaukee’s situation told ESPN that “the writing is on the wall,” though the Bucks have not yet indicated they are ready to recalibrate the roster. Should that stance change, executives across the league are expected to call immediately, turning the Knicks into one suitor among many.
Source: Hoops Wire
