TITLE: NBA Roundup: Contending Teams Trade Future Picks, Early 2026 Draft Buzz, Extension Hurdles, Thanasis Antetokounmpo Returns
SLUG: nba-contenders-future-picks-2026-draft-extensions-thanasis
CONTENT:
Several franchises have mortgaged significant draft capital to chase immediate championships, according to reporting by ESPN’s Tim Bontemps and Kevin Pelton.
Win-now maneuvering
• The Nuggets have dealt away most of their future selections to reshape depth around three-time MVP center Nikola Jokić. On paper, the 2025/26 roster is viewed as an upgrade from the 2024/25 version assembled by former president Calvin Booth.
• Milwaukee has taken similarly aggressive swings to satisfy two-time MVP forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, though questions persist about whether the Bucks can contend without a second All-Star.
• Minnesota surrendered multiple picks to construct a roster centered on 23-year-old All-NBA guard Anthony Edwards.
Looking ahead to the 2026 draft
With early hype building around a class headlined by A.J. Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson and Cameron Boozer, Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman ranks the current crop of prospects. U19 World Cup gold medalist forward Tyran Stokes tops the list, followed by EuroCamp MVP guard Caleb Holt.
Extension negotiations tightening
The Athletic’s John Hollinger notes that rookie-scale extensions have become harder to finalize, mirroring recent struggles in restricted free agency. Hollinger cites diminished incentive structures as a key stumbling block for players and clubs seeking middle ground.
Imagem: Alex Kirschenbaum via hoopsrumors.com
Thanasis Antetokounmpo back on court
Free-agent forward Thanasis Antetokounmpo appeared in his first game since tearing his Achilles in May 2024, logging 12:34 in Greece’s 74-60 exhibition win over Belgium in Athens ahead of EuroBasket. The 6’7” veteran scored six points. Younger brother Giannis Antetokounmpo did not play but traveled with the national team and is expected to suit up when tournament games begin.
Source: Hoops Rumors
