Magic Reportedly Checked on Giannis Antetokounmpo Before Deadline; Mavericks Interested in Tim Connelly; Bulls Front-Office Search Continues
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The Orlando Magic explored the possibility of acquiring Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo prior to February’s NBA trade deadline, league sources told Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. The inquiry aligns with recent comments from The Ringer’s Kirk Goldsberry, although the level of Orlando’s pursuit remains unclear.
Former Bucks general manager John Hammond, now in Orlando’s front office, drafted Antetokounmpo in 2013. Combined with team president Jeff Weltman’s well-known preference for length and size, the Magic’s interest in the two-time MVP was viewed around the league as plausible. Whether the franchise revisits the idea this offseason may hinge on how far the current roster advances.
Despite Orlando’s overture, Antetokounmpo is believed to be on solid footing with recently hired Bucks head coach Taylor Jenkins, according to Scotto, reducing any immediate expectation of movement.
Mavericks Monitoring Timberwolves President Tim Connelly
Dallas is expected to reshape its basketball operations department, and sources told HoopsHype that the Mavericks have identified Tim Connelly, the Minnesota Timberwolves’ president of basketball operations, as a leading target. Minnesota, meanwhile, is interested in securing Connelly with a long-term extension, setting up a potential battle for his services similar to his 2022 departure from Denver for the Timberwolves.
Bulls Weigh Options for Front Office and Coaching Positions
The Chicago Bulls continue their search for a top basketball executive and have interviewed Cleveland Cavaliers general manager Mike Gansey. Timberwolves executive Matt Lloyd is also under consideration to lead Chicago’s front office. Should Lloyd be hired, Minnesota assistant coach Micah Nori could emerge as a serious candidate for the Bulls’ head-coaching job, league sources said.
The interconnected moves illustrate how one front-office change can ripple across multiple franchises as the offseason approaches.
Source: Hoops Wire
