The Milwaukee Bucks and their superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo have been at the center of persistent trade speculation throughout the offseason. The buzz reached a peak when the Bucks and Knicks entered an exclusive negotiating window in August, suggesting a blockbuster move was a real possibility. This period of intense discussion, however, has now reached a definitive and quiet end. The entire situation left fans and analysts wondering if the superstar’s long tenure in Milwaukee was finally concluding.

Behind the scenes, the Greek Freak’s camp had identified New York as the one external destination that truly appealed to him. This set the stage for a high-stakes poker game between the two franchises. The Knicks, fresh off an Eastern Conference Finals appearance, seemed like a logical fit for a player of his caliber seeking championship contention. Yet, despite this clear interest from the player, a deal never materialized. The fundamental question of what New York could actually offer in return always loomed large over the negotiations, creating a significant roadblock from the start.

Brett Siegel took to X and posted a tweet that revealed the Bucks’ definitive stance on the matter. Responding to a question about Giannis exclusively asking for a trade to New York, Siegel stated, “If the Knicks have nothing of value to offer the Bucks, which they don’t, MIL would have zero ambition to trade Giannis to NYC.” This blunt assessment highlighted the fundamental roadblock in any potential deal between the two franchises. The Knicks’ asset depletion stems from their recent blockbuster acquisitions: Five first-round picks traded to Brooklyn for Mikal Bridges in 2024 Significant draft capital spent acquiring Karl-Anthony Towns.

Siegel added crucial context about Milwaukee’s approach, noting, “Bucks are clearly going to work with Giannis through their issues and if he ultimately requests a trade, but they will look out for themselves too.” This indicates the organization’s willingness to collaborate with its star while maintaining its organizational interests. The insider’s comments confirm that despite Giannis’s preferences, Milwaukee won’t accept a subpar return simply to accommodate his destination choice. 

This decision is backed by the Bucks’ own expensive actions this offseason, which signaled a commitment to winning now, not rebuilding. The team made the stunning financial move of waiving and stretching veteran guard Damian Lillard. That decision alone cost the franchise a massive one hundred million dollars in dead money on their books. They then doubled down by committing one hundred eight million dollars to sign center Myles Turner. These are not the maneuvers of a team preparing to trade away its best player since Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

Further insight from ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reinforces that the Knicks also seemed to doubt a deal was possible. He pointed to New York’s decision to extend Mikal Bridges on a one hundred fifty million dollar contract right in the middle of the Giannis speculation. “That action indicates that they didn’t think they were in position to make this type of trade right now,” Windhorst observed. The timing of the entire situation also worked against a trade, as stars on huge contracts typically do not request moves in August, when teams have largely finalized their rosters and budgets for the season.

Looking ahead, Shams Charania confirmed that if Giannis Antetokounmpo does reopen trade talks during the season, the field will widen far beyond Manhattan. “If it does reopen in the season, that’s going to include other NBA teams. I expect it to go beyond just the Knicks,” Charania reported. This sets the stage for a potential bidding war down the line, shifting the power away from a single suitor and giving the Bucks more options and leverage should they ever decide to listen to offers, a scenario that remains firmly in the future.

Potential Trade Destinations Beyond New York

Should Giannis Antetokounmpo eventually ask for a trade, several other teams are poised to enter the conversation. The Los Angeles Lakers are always part of superstar rumors, but assembling a competitive package is difficult. They have some future draft picks, like a 2031 first-rounder, but would need to navigate complex salary-matching rules, especially with LeBron James and Luka Doncic already on large contracts, making a realistic deal a major challenge for their front office.

The Golden State Warriors could emerge as a fascinating dark horse candidate. They have the championship pedigree that might appeal to Giannis and a core that is still competitive. A potential offer could be built around promising young talent like Jonathan Kuminga and valuable future draft picks. The Warriors have shown a willingness to spend big to maximize Stephen Curry’s final years, which could make them a serious threat if they decide to go all in.

Another team to watch is the Philadelphia 76ers, whose general manager, Daryl Morey, is known for his aggressive pursuit of star talent. The Sixers have a stockpile of draft capital and young players to offer. However, any realistic package for a player of Giannis’s magnitude would likely require them to include a foundational piece like Joel Embiid or Paul George, a massive decision that would reshape their entire roster but could be the price for landing a two-time MVP.