The Milwaukee Bucks are prepared to listen to trade offers for Giannis Antetokounmpo, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The Greek forward, under contract through 2027, has yet to decide whether to extend his stay or move on once the deal expires. This isn’t the first time speculation has swirled around his future—he came close to being dealt during the recent trade deadline.
Antetokounmpo has previously expressed a desire for a change of scenery and nearly joined another franchise mid-season. Major teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves, Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, and Los Angeles Lakers were all in the mix, but he ultimately remained with the Bucks, the team he has played for over the past 13 seasons.
Giannis Antetokounmpo during a game this season.
Now, with his contract nearing its end and growing frustration with Milwaukee’s project, Antetokounmpo is closer to the exit than ever. Less than seven weeks before the draft, the three-time NBA champion franchise will field calls for a player who reportedly wanted out to the Knicks during a previous window. “At some point in the next six or seven weeks, we’ll decide whether Giannis signs a max contract and stays with us or if he plays for another team,” said Bucks co-owner Jimmy Haslam.
Giannis Antetokounmpo talking to a referee.
The relationship between the club and the player has significantly deteriorated. When Antetokounmpo suffered a knee injury, the team wanted him to sit out the remainder of the season since they had nothing to play for. The Greek, however, wanted to keep playing, leading to an internal investigation. Tensions remain high, though Bucks executives are also considering a major trade to convince Antetokounmpo to stay. With the No. 10 pick in the upcoming draft, the team could move contracts like those of Kyle Kuzma and Bobby Portis—a move that might persuade the two-time MVP to reconsider.