The Milwaukee Bucks have signaled they are ready to evaluate trade offers for two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported after Sunday’s draft lottery.
According to the report, club executives and ownership plan to take their time, expecting strong interest across the league. Milwaukee is said to be seeking either a premier young player or a substantial package of draft picks in any potential deal.
Multiple teams linked
Previous coverage has identified the Celtics, Magic, Trail Blazers, Warriors, Heat, Rockets and Raptors as early bidders. Teams that pursued Antetokounmpo before February’s trade deadline—the Timberwolves, Cavaliers, Knicks and Lakers—are also expected to revisit talks this offseason.
Front-office timeline
Co-owner Wes Edens told ESPN in March that the franchise intends to either extend or trade its superstar within the next year. Fellow co-owner Jimmy Haslam narrowed that window on Wednesday, saying he hopes for resolution by next month’s draft.
“Sometime over the next six or seven weeks we’ll decide whether Giannis is going to sign a max contract and stay with us or he’s going to play somewhere else,” Haslam said during a news conference introducing new head coach Taylor Jenkins.
Haslam added that the organization aims to work with the forward on an outcome “best for both sides.” Charania’s sources maintain Antetokounmpo still believes it is time for a split.
Strained relationship, league inquiry
Tensions reportedly intensified after February’s deadline, culminating in an NBA investigation into the Bucks’ decision to sideline Antetokounmpo late in the season with a knee injury.
Lottery results and contract details
Milwaukee landed the No. 10 pick in Sunday’s lottery, while none of Antetokounmpo’s primary suitors—such as Miami or Golden State—moved into the top four.
The 29-year-old has two seasons remaining on his contract, including a $62,786,682 player option for the final year. Interested teams are expected to seek clarity on his willingness to sign an extension before parting with major assets.
Source: Hoops Rumors
