Giannis Trade Talk Heating Up, But Don’t Expect a Deadline Blockbuster-Yet
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s name is swirling in trade rumors once again, and this time, it’s not just whispers-it’s real conversations. The Milwaukee Bucks are reportedly listening to offers for the two-time MVP, and multiple teams have already picked up the phone. But here’s the thing: while the league is buzzing, there’s a growing sense that we’re not going to see a deal materialize before Thursday’s trade deadline.
According to league insiders, the offers Milwaukee has received so far haven’t exactly blown them away. In fact, they’ve been described as “underwhelming” by several executives and agents around the league. That’s led many to believe that if a Giannis deal is coming, it’s more likely to happen this summer than in the next 48 hours.
Why Wait Until the Offseason? Timing Is Everything
There are a few key reasons why the Bucks might prefer to hold off. First, the draft landscape will be much clearer after the lottery. Knowing exactly where their own pick-and any other 2026 first-rounders involved in a potential deal-will land gives Milwaukee a better idea of what kind of value they’re getting in return.
Second, teams that are currently handcuffed by the Stepien Rule or the seven-year pick window will have more flexibility to include draft capital once the offseason hits. That means a club that can’t offer much now might be able to sweeten the pot in June.
And let’s not forget the playoff factor. A team with high expectations could flame out early this spring, prompting a more aggressive push for a superstar like Giannis. That’s the kind of scenario that can reshape the trade market overnight.
The Usual Suspects-and a Few Surprises
The Warriors, Heat, Timberwolves, and Knicks have all been linked to Giannis in recent weeks. Golden State, in particular, could put together a pick-heavy package with most of their future first-rounders and swaps available. But they might be better served waiting until they can maximize that offer in the offseason.
One team that’s entered the chat more recently? The Cleveland Cavaliers.
According to multiple reports, the Cavs have reached out not just about Giannis, but also about Mavericks big man Anthony Davis. That’s a bold move, especially considering Cleveland’s current financial constraints.
The Cavs are operating about $14 million over the second tax apron, which limits their flexibility. They can’t aggregate salaries in a trade while above that line, and both Giannis and AD carry cap hits north of $54 million. So, for Cleveland to make a serious play, they’d need to shed significant salary-and fast.
Cleveland’s Internal Crossroads
Even if a blockbuster doesn’t happen this week, the Cavaliers are clearly at a turning point. For the first time, they appear willing to discuss players previously considered untouchable, including Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen. That shift seems to be driven by two key concerns: doubts about the current roster’s championship ceiling and uncertainty around Donovan Mitchell’s long-term commitment.
The Bucks, for their part, are reportedly prioritizing impact players in any Giannis trade. That could give the Cavs a glimmer of hope-if they can find a way to make the money work. But with only one tradable first-round pick (either in 2031 or 2032), Cleveland’s draft capital is limited.
Still, the Cavs are staying active. They’re reportedly deep in talks with the Clippers about a deal involving Garland and James Harden. Those conversations have picked up in intensity, with both sides pushing to get something done before Thursday’s deadline.
What’s Next?
While there’s no shortage of interest in Giannis, the odds of a deadline-day blockbuster are slim. Milwaukee is playing this smart-waiting for the right offer, not just the first one. And with more teams expected to retool after the playoffs and more draft picks becoming available in the summer, the Bucks might just be biding their time.
But make no mistake: the league is watching, and the phones are ringing. Whether it’s now or in July, the Giannis sweepstakes are very much alive.