Reporting on the “Point Forward” podcast, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel beat writer Jim Owczarski said the recent lack of public information regarding a possible Giannis Antetokounmpo trade may signal that negotiations have entered a critical phase. “The quiet is eerie,” Owczarski noted, adding that Bucks general manager Jon Horst has a history of keeping major moves confidential, citing the surprise acquisitions of Jrue Holiday and Damian Lillard.
Bucks co-owner Jimmy Haslam stated roughly four weeks ago that the franchise hopes to reach a resolution—either a trade or long-term commitment—before the NBA draft. Milwaukee is believed to be seeking at least one first-round pick in the highly regarded 2026 draft should it move the two-time MVP.
Owczarski added that he is unsure how extensively the front office has considered bringing in another star to play alongside Antetokounmpo if the forward opts to stay. Antetokounmpo becomes extension-eligible in October, leaving open the possibility of a renewed long-term deal with the Bucks.
Heat Remain Aggressive
League sources told Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald that the Miami Heat maintain strong interest in Antetokounmpo. According to those sources, center Bam Adebayo is the only untouchable player in Miami’s discussions with Milwaukee, and the Heat have identified which of their remaining players the Bucks value. Any potential deal is expected to be explored after the NBA Finals, giving other suitors time to emerge. Miami reportedly has no concerns about fitting an Adebayo-Antetokounmpo frontcourt on offense.
Other Possible Suitors
Owczarski speculated on what packages the Orlando Magic or Heat might assemble to draw Milwaukee’s attention. Meanwhile, Jay King of The Athletic wrote that the Boston Celtics could be a wild card but questioned whether pursuing Antetokounmpo aligns with Boston’s broader roster plans under president of basketball operations Brad Stevens.
In a separate analysis, Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report ranked hypothetical trade returns for Milwaukee, suggesting the Cleveland Cavaliers could make a compelling bid if they are willing to include forward Evan Mobley.
No timetable beyond the draft has been set publicly, but the emerging code of silence around negotiations has intensified league-wide speculation as June approaches.
Source: Hoops Rumors
