Bucks Issue Counteroffers as Giannis Antetokounmpo Discussions Intensify Ahead of Deadline
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Milwaukee has responded to multiple inquiries for two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, submitting counteroffers to interested clubs over the weekend, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on SportsCenter.
According to Charania, the Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors and New York Knicks have emerged as the most aggressive suitors, though additional franchises are monitoring the situation. The Bucks are reportedly seeking a package heavy on young players, draft picks, or a blend of both.
Milwaukee’s front office is weighing whether to finalize a trade before Thursday’s deadline or wait for the offseason, when rival teams will possess more draft capital. Delaying a move would also give Antetokounmpo greater leverage to steer his destination; after earning $58.5 million next season, he holds a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28 and could indicate he will not re-sign with an undesirable landing spot.
The franchise initially approached the trade period as a buyer, hoping roster upgrades could spark a late push and persuade Antetokounmpo to remain long-term. That strategy shifted after the All-NBA forward suffered a calf injury on January 23 that sidelined him indefinitely. Milwaukee has since dropped five straight games, falling to 18-29 and 12th in the Eastern Conference.
Head coach Doc Rivers addressed the speculation Sunday on ESPN’s NBA Countdown, saying he expects the roster to stay intact past the deadline. “I think everyone will be here,” Rivers said, adding that Antetokounmpo wants to continue playing for the Bucks and aims to return to the court before season’s end.
The trade deadline arrives Thursday at 3 p.m. ET.
Source: Hoops Rumors
