Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Rumors Heat Up: Knicks, Hawks, Spurs Among Suitors
There was a time when the idea of Giannis Antetokounmpo leaving Milwaukee felt like fiction. The two-time MVP didn’t just bring the Bucks a championship-he brought them an identity. He signed extension after extension, talked about loyalty, and made it clear that he wanted to build something lasting in Milwaukee.
But things change fast in the NBA.
Now, according to a report from ESPN’s Shams Charania, Antetokounmpo has asked the Bucks to explore trade options. And with Milwaukee stumbling out of the gate to a 9-13 start, the urgency is real. This isn’t just about a rough month-it’s about a superstar seeing the window close on a team that once looked built to last.
The Bucks’ struggles have been well-documented. Injuries, inconsistent defense, and a lack of depth have all played a role.
And for a player in his prime like Giannis, the clock is ticking. He’s made it clear he wants to win.
If that can’t happen in Milwaukee anymore, he’s ready to find somewhere it can.
A Trade Request with Weight
This isn’t the first time Giannis has reportedly asked out. Over the summer, he was linked to the Knicks as his preferred destination.
While nothing materialized then, the situation now feels different. The Bucks are sliding, and the pressure is mounting.
If Milwaukee does decide to pull the trigger, there are a few teams that stand out as serious contenders in the Giannis sweepstakes.
Atlanta Hawks: A Surprising Contender
Don’t sleep on Atlanta.
The Hawks are in an interesting spot. With Trae Young sidelined, Jalen Johnson has stepped up in a big way, showing flashes of star potential and giving the front office something to think about. Add in the fact that they own the Pelicans’ unprotected 2026 first-round pick-which could end up being a goldmine-and Atlanta has the kind of assets that could get Milwaukee’s attention.
They’ve got young talent, future picks, and a desire to make a splash. If the Hawks want to go big, this is their chance.
New York Knicks: The Preferred Destination
New York has long been on Giannis’ radar, and it’s no secret the Knicks would love to bring a superstar like him to Madison Square Garden.
The Knicks have built a strong core with real chemistry. Jalen Brunson has been outstanding, Julius Randle continues to be a force, and the team has taken on the identity of a gritty, defensive-minded squad. The question now is whether they’d be willing to break that up for a shot at Giannis.
They’ve got the assets-young players, draft picks, and expiring contracts. If the Bucks re-engage with New York, the framework for a deal could come together quickly. But it would mean going all-in, and that’s never a small decision.
San Antonio Spurs: The Wemby-Giannis Dream
Now here’s a pairing that would shake up the league.
Imagine Giannis Antetokounmpo and Victor Wembanyama sharing the frontcourt. It’s the kind of frontcourt that would give opposing coaches nightmares-and fans a reason to tune in every night.
The Spurs are loaded with draft capital, including Atlanta’s 2027 first-round pick and a potential pick swap in the upcoming draft. They’ve also got a stable of young, promising players like Devin Vassell, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper. If San Antonio wants to fast-track their rebuild and pair Wemby with a proven winner, this might be the move.
The Wild Cards
And of course, there’s always the chance a dark horse jumps into the race. Could the Lakers make a run? Could the Thunder, armed with a war chest of picks and young talent, decide to accelerate their timeline?
We’ve seen it before-when a superstar becomes available, the NBA landscape can shift overnight.
What’s Next?
The Bucks are now at a crossroads. Do they try to salvage the season and convince Giannis to stay? Or do they cash in on one of the most valuable trade chips in modern NBA history?
Whatever happens, this storyline is just getting started. One thing’s for sure: if Giannis is truly on the move, the entire league is about to feel the ripple effects.