Trail Blazers May Not Land Giannis, But They’re Still in the Game
Let’s clear one thing up right away: Giannis Antetokounmpo isn’t walking through the doors of Moda Center anytime soon. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the two-time MVP has “zero interest in going to Portland.” That’s not exactly shocking news, considering everything we know about Giannis’ preferences-big-market appeal, proximity to family in Greece, and, let’s be honest, sunnier skies than what the Pacific Northwest typically offers.
But while the dream of Giannis in a Blazers jersey might be off the table, that doesn’t mean Portland is sitting this one out. In fact, they’re in a sneaky-good position to benefit from whatever happens next-without ever needing to land the Greek Freak themselves.
The Bucks’ Turmoil Could Be Portland’s Treasure
Thanks to the Damian Lillard trade, the Blazers are holding some prime Milwaukee draft capital-specifically, picks from 2028 to 2030. And with the Bucks looking shakier than expected, the value of those future assets has quietly skyrocketed. If Milwaukee’s current trajectory continues to trend downward, those picks could end up being gold.
That gives Portland leverage-both now and down the road. They can sit tight, keep stockpiling young talent, and develop what’s already shaping up to be a promising core.
With several players still on rookie-scale deals and a potential Deni Avdija extension looming, maintaining financial flexibility will be key. Holding onto those Bucks picks could give the Blazers a long-term edge without having to make a splashy move at the deadline.
But Don’t Rule Out a Deadline Deal
That said, Portland isn’t locked into a passive approach. At 23-25, they currently sit ninth in the Western Conference.
The roster is getting healthier, the schedule is easing up, and there’s a real sense that this team could make a push. If the right opportunity presents itself, the Blazers have the assets to be buyers.
And that’s where those Milwaukee picks come back into the picture. If a Giannis trade does go down-and especially if it involves a team like the Knicks-Portland could step in as a third-party facilitator. That role could net them a valuable piece without having to break the bank.
Let’s say a player like Mikal Bridges becomes available in a multi-team deal. Portland might not want to throw in both of their Bucks pick swaps, and honestly, they shouldn’t.
But using one of those assets to bring in a proven contributor? That’s a move worth considering.
It’s all about balance-diversifying their assets without putting all their chips on Milwaukee’s collapse.
Portland’s Position: Quietly Powerful
So no, Giannis isn’t coming to Portland. But the Blazers don’t need to land the superstar to come out ahead.
Whether they hold firm and build through the draft or get aggressive at the deadline, they’re in a position of strength. And in a league where timing and leverage are everything, that’s not a bad place to be.
The Giannis sweepstakes may not end with a Portland headline, but don’t be surprised if the Blazers still walk away with a win.