With the NBA trade deadline just days away, the rumor mill is heating up-and this time, it’s Giannis Antetokounmpo’s name that’s making waves. The two-time MVP is reportedly at the center of some exploratory conversations, and while a blockbuster move is far from imminent, there’s one team floating around the edges that’s raising eyebrows: the Portland Trail Blazers.
According to recent reports, Portland has expressed interest in acquiring Antetokounmpo. Now, let’s be clear-this isn’t a case of the Blazers thinking they’re about to swoop in and land the Greek Freak long-term.
They reportedly know the odds of convincing him to sign an extension in Portland are slim. But that doesn’t mean they’re not looking to get involved in the action.
Giannis is under contract through the 2026-27 season, with a player option for 2027-28. That kind of control gives Milwaukee leverage, but it also puts any potential trade partner in a tough spot. Trading for a superstar without a long-term commitment is a gamble-especially when you're trying to build something sustainable.
That’s why the more realistic path for Portland might be as a facilitator in a larger, multi-team deal. Think of it this way: the Blazers aren't necessarily trying to land Giannis themselves-they’re positioning to be the team that helps make a Giannis trade work for someone else. And in return, they’d look to pick up a player or asset that fits their own rebuilding timeline.
Here’s where it gets interesting: Portland has some serious leverage when it comes to Milwaukee’s future. Thanks to previous trades, the Blazers control the Bucks’ first-round picks from 2028 through 2030. That includes the right to swap picks in 2028 and 2030, plus the rights to the most favorable first-round pick among the Blazers, Bucks, and Celtics in 2029.
So if Milwaukee does decide to explore a Giannis trade, Portland is naturally going to be part of the conversation. Their control over those future picks gives them a unique seat at the table-one that could help them extract a valuable piece to accelerate their rebuild.
With the deadline approaching fast-Thursday at noon-it’s a situation worth watching. Giannis being moved before then still feels unlikely, but in the NBA, we’ve learned to never say never. And if anything does go down, don’t be surprised if Portland plays a key supporting role in making it happen.