Cleveland briefly tested the trade market for Giannis Antetokounmpo ahead of February’s NBA trade deadline, but talks with the Milwaukee Bucks ended quickly after the reigning champions demanded a package built around forward Evan Mobley and every first-round pick the Cavaliers could offer, according to league sources cited by reporter Jake Fischer.
Fischer reported that Cleveland’s front office reached out to Milwaukee in the weeks leading up to the deadline. The Bucks’ response—Mobley plus the club’s full cache of first-round selections—was more than the Cavaliers were willing to consider, effectively halting negotiations.
Although the conversation was short-lived, sources told Fischer the Cavaliers may revisit the idea this offseason or next year if the team fails to make a deep playoff run. Any renewed pursuit would be tied in part to star guard Donovan Mitchell’s contract status; like Antetokounmpo, Mitchell is eligible for an extension this summer and could become a free agent in 2027 if he declines his player option.
Inside the organization, Mobley is widely viewed as a foundational cornerstone, making him a “non-starter” in most trade scenarios, the report added. Still, Cleveland’s interest in Antetokounmpo underscores the franchise’s desire to strengthen its core around Mitchell and remain competitive in the Eastern Conference.
The Bucks, who won the NBA title in 2025, have given no indication they plan to move Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP under contract through at least 2027 with a player option for 2028.
Source: Hoops Wire
