Executives around the NBA believe Milwaukee would prioritize reclaiming its future draft selections in any trade talks involving Giannis Antetokounmpo, according to reporting by Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.
Speculation has linked Boston to a possible swap built around Jaylen Brown, but league sources told Fischer the Celtics expressed only minimal interest in Antetokounmpo before February’s trade deadline. Fischer added that he never sensed the two-time MVP was intrigued by Boston as a destination. Rival teams expect Milwaukee would redirect Brown to a third club for additional assets rather than keep him should such a trade materialize.
Cavaliers Viewed as Potential Suitor
With Boston’s involvement appearing lukewarm, league figures point to Cleveland as a team that could pursue Antetokounmpo if the Cavaliers fall short of the Eastern Conference finals. The Cavaliers contacted the Bucks prior to the deadline, sources said, and Milwaukee responded by requesting forward Evan Mobley plus all of Cleveland’s available draft capital.
Both Antetokounmpo and Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell are heading into off-seasons when they become eligible for extensions and could reach free agency in 2027 should they decline their 2027-28 player options, creating parallel contract timelines.
Giannis Endorses Hiring of Taylor Jenkins
General manager Jon Horst told reporters that Antetokounmpo did not meet with new head coach Taylor Jenkins during Milwaukee’s search process, though the two have since spoken. Antetokounmpo publicly backed the hire, calling Jenkins “an incredible coach” and “a good person.”
Jenkins, an assistant with Milwaukee in 2018-19 before spending six seasons as the Grizzlies’ head coach, said his familiarity with the Bucks’ front office and culture influenced his decision to return. “I know the people, I know what they stand for,” Jenkins said during his introductory press conference, which included Horst and co-owner Jimmy Haslam.
Source: Hoops Rumors
