The Giannis sweepstakes? Yeah, it’s looking like they’re off the table-at least for now.
Despite some buzz around teams like the Timberwolves and Warriors eyeing a blockbuster move for Giannis Antetokounmpo ahead of the trade deadline, both franchises have made moves that all but confirm they’re pivoting away from that dream. And unless something seismic happens in the next few hours, it looks like the Greek Freak is staying put in Milwaukee.
Warriors Wave the White Flag
Let’s start in Golden State, where the Warriors just made a deal that speaks volumes. They sent Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Kristaps Porzingis.
Now, Porzingis is a solid addition-he gives them size, floor spacing, and another veteran presence-but this move isn’t about chasing Giannis. It’s about doubling down on the current core.
Trading Kuminga is especially telling. He was Golden State’s most intriguing young asset, the kind of player you’d expect to be at the center of any superstar trade package.
By moving him, the Warriors essentially took themselves out of the Giannis conversation. They’ve opted to retool around what they have, rather than swing for the fences.
Minnesota Makes Its Move-But Not for Giannis
Meanwhile, the Timberwolves made a splash of their own, acquiring guard Ayo Dosunmu from the Bulls in a deal involving Rob Dillingham and four second-round picks. Dosunmu is a high-energy, versatile guard who fits their system well, and this is clearly a win-now move for a team that sees itself as a serious contender in the West.
But just like Golden State, Minnesota’s decision to part with some of its more tradeable assets-especially those second-rounders-signals a shift. Those picks, along with Dillingham, could’ve been part of a potential Giannis package.
Now? That door is mostly closed.
Sure, they still have Jaden McDaniels, who’s a valuable piece, but the odds of pulling off a deal for Giannis with what’s left in the cupboard just took a major hit.
Miami Still Lurking… For Now
That leaves Miami as the last real question mark. The Heat have been loosely linked to Giannis, but their lack of draft capital has always made things tricky. If Minnesota and Golden State are out, and if Miami doesn’t pull off something dramatic soon, the picture becomes pretty clear: Giannis isn’t going anywhere this deadline.
Bucks Holding Steady-And Maybe Even Buying?
In fact, Milwaukee might not just be holding onto Giannis-they could be looking to add. According to Jake Fischer, the Bucks are still keeping tabs on Ja Morant.
That’s a bold move, and it’s not the kind of thing a franchise does if it’s preparing to blow things up. It’s a signal that Milwaukee still sees itself as a contender, and they’re looking for ways to help Giannis win now, not later.
What’s Next?
If the deadline passes with no Giannis trade-and that’s the heavy favorite right now-expect the conversation to shift toward the summer. That’s when the Bucks will have more flexibility, more time to evaluate their roster, and another opportunity to show Giannis why Milwaukee is still the right place for him.
But for now? The clock’s ticking, and all signs point to the reigning MVP staying put.
The Timberwolves and Warriors have made their plays, just not the one fans were fantasizing about. And unless Miami makes a last-minute push, the Greek Freak will be wearing green and cream past the deadline.
Stay locked in-we’re not done yet.