Giannis Trade Watch: Why the Warriors May Not Be the Slam Dunk Landing Spot
The Golden State Warriors are swinging big - and their latest target is none other than Giannis Antetokounmpo. But despite the franchise’s aggressive pursuit, there’s growing buzz that the Greek Freak might not be all-in on a move to the Bay.
According to league sources, Golden State is well aware that Giannis’ interest in joining forces with Stephen Curry isn’t quite the sure thing it once seemed. And while only Giannis truly knows what he wants, some around the league believe the idea of joining an aging roster - and walking straight into the shadow of the Kevin Durant-Curry discourse - could be a turnoff.
Let’s break that down. The Warriors are currently sitting in eighth place in the Western Conference.
Curry, still playing at a high level, turns 38 in March. The team last hoisted the Larry O’Brien trophy in 2022, but they haven’t made it past the second round since.
For a superstar like Giannis - who’s still in his prime and hungry for another ring - the fit isn’t as clean as it might look on paper.
There’s also the legacy angle. Durant still hears it from fans and critics for joining a ready-made Warriors dynasty back in 2016. Giannis, who’s built his name on loyalty, grit, and doing it “his way,” might not be eager to follow a similar path - even if it means teaming up with another all-time great in Curry.
Still, the Bucks are listening to offers. Giannis doesn’t have a no-trade clause, which means Milwaukee controls the board.
And with the team coming off three straight first-round playoff exits, the front office is weighing its options. After delivering a championship in 2021, Giannis is reportedly ready for a fresh start - and the Bucks may be ready to hit the reset button.
Several teams are in the mix. Alongside Golden State, the Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, and New York Knicks are all considered serious suitors, per reports.
And while Giannis is currently sidelined with a right calf injury - expected to miss four to six weeks - that hasn’t slowed down the trade chatter. When a player of his caliber becomes available, teams don’t wait around.
Golden State’s path to a deal could get complicated. To match Giannis’ $54.1 million salary this season, they’ll need to move major pieces.
One scenario reportedly being discussed involves Draymond Green, not Jimmy Butler, as part of the outgoing package. Butler, who’s recovering from a torn right ACL, is expected to remain with the Warriors as he begins a year-long rehab - meaning Green could be the odd man out in a potential blockbuster.
Giannis is repped by Octagon - the same agency as Curry - but don’t read too much into that. Even with shared representation, this is about fit, future, and legacy.
At 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game this season, Giannis is still very much at the peak of his powers. He’s a two-time MVP, a Finals MVP, a Defensive Player of the Year, and a 10-time All-Star. His résumé is already Hall of Fame-worthy, but he’s clearly chasing more.
With a player option worth $62.8 million looming in 2027-28, the clock is ticking for Milwaukee - and for any team hoping to land one of the most dominant forces in the league. Whether that’s the Warriors or someone else, one thing’s clear: Giannis’ next move could reshape the NBA landscape.