The Milwaukee Bucks reportedly came close to moving two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo at the 2026 NBA trade deadline, according to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne.
League sources told Shelburne that Milwaukee’s preliminary price included young cornerstone pieces, most notably Cleveland Cavaliers big man Evan Mobley and Philadelphia 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe. The requested return underscores the type of franchise-level package the Bucks would require to part with Antetokounmpo.
Mobley, already recognized as one of the NBA’s elite two-way frontcourt players and a Defensive Player of the Year winner, represents the caliber of talent Milwaukee sought in any potential deal. Edgecombe’s name also surfaced as part of the exploratory talks.
While discussions did not advance to completion, the report indicates the Bucks and Antetokounmpo are expected to revisit his future this offseason. Milwaukee can offer the superstar an extension in October; if no agreement is reached, speculation about a trade is likely to intensify.
The Cavaliers, meanwhile, remain focused on a postseason run after adding James Harden earlier in the season. Cleveland has yet to progress beyond the second round during Donovan Mitchell’s tenure and views this playoff push as pivotal to its direction.
Intra-division trades involving players of Antetokounmpo’s stature are rare, but not impossible, leaving open the possibility of renewed talks once the summer market opens.
Source: Hoops Wire
