Bucks Enter Trade Talks, Submit Counteroffers for Giannis Antetokounmpo
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With the NBA trade deadline three days away, the Milwaukee Bucks have begun sending counterproposals to several clubs pursuing two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
The shift marks a significant change in posture for Milwaukee, which had long resisted moving its franchise cornerstone. League sources said the Bucks are now actively engaged with a small group of teams on a potential blockbuster, asking for either a young blue-chip player or a sizable package of draft picks in return.
The Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors and New York Knicks are described as the most aggressive suitors ahead of Thursday’s 3 p.m. ET cutoff.
Milwaukee’s stance evolved as the club stumbled to an 18-29 record. Sunday’s lopsided defeat to the Boston Celtics was the Bucks’ fifth straight loss, dropping them to 12th in the Eastern Conference.
Antetokounmpo, who has spent more than 12 years with the organization, has told team officials for months that he believes it is time to move on, sources said. The 31-year-old forward has appeared in 30 games this season, averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds and 5.6 assists while shooting 64% from the field.
He is currently sidelined by a right calf strain that he estimated will keep him out four to six weeks. The Bucks have not announced an official timetable for his return.
Milwaukee opens a three-game homestand this week with matchups against the Chicago Bulls and New Orleans Pelicans before the deadline arrives.
Source: ESPN
