The Milwaukee Bucks have intensified trade conversations around Giannis Antetokounmpo during the past week after reports surfaced that the two-time MVP is open to relocating. Yet, in an interview published Tuesday by Jim Owczarski of The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Antetokounmpo reiterated his preference to remain in Wisconsin.
“What I want deep down in my heart is I want to be a Milwaukee Buck for the rest of my career and win here,” he said, noting that he married, started a family, and buried his father in Milwaukee. “So people have the audacity to come tell me and say, ‘This guy really doesn’t love Milwaukee.’ … This city has let me be myself.”
Despite that affection, the 29-19 Bucks are well off their usual contention pace, prompting both the organization and its franchise star to listen to proposals. “How many chances do I have left to win a championship?” Antetokounmpo asked, pausing eight seconds before adding, “You gotta look.”
Timberwolves Make Aggressive Push
Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reports that the Minnesota Timberwolves are in “constant communication” with Milwaukee and have discussed sending Jaden McDaniels, Julius Randle, and Naz Reid to various teams to stockpile the assets required for an Antetokounmpo deal. League sources told Siegel the former MVP finds the prospect of teaming with Anthony Edwards “extremely compelling.”
Warriors and Heat Also in the Mix
Siegel adds that the Golden State Warriors and Miami Heat have lodged “strong pitches,” though skepticism is growing about Miami’s ability to meet Milwaukee’s price before Thursday’s deadline.
According to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, a likely Warriors package features Draymond Green, Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and multiple first-round picks. The Bucks, wary of Green’s $25.9 million salary and $27.7 million player option for 2026-27, would seek to reroute the veteran forward to a third team if talks advance.
Lakers Could Re-enter in the Summer
Stein notes that the Los Angeles Lakers are not considered a serious bidder this week. However, if Milwaukee waits until the offseason, Los Angeles could offer up to three first-round selections—2026, 2031, and 2033—compared with only one (2031 or 2032) at present.
Blazers Face Extension Roadblock
The Portland Trail Blazers have explored a pursuit of Antetokounmpo, Stein writes, but the forward’s representatives have indicated he would not sign an extension in Portland, making an aggressive offer unlikely.
Injury Update
Antetokounmpo, sidelined by a calf strain, completed a 30-minute on-court workout Tuesday, according to Eric Nehm of The Athletic. The Bucks have not announced a timetable for his return.
The NBA trade deadline is Thursday.
Source: HoopsRumors
