By Javier Molero/ jmolero@eurohoops.net
The next few weeks could be decisive for the present and future of the Milwaukee Bucks. With Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future uncertain, the franchise appears open to offers.
According to ESPN, the Milwaukee Bucks would listen to trade offers for the two-time MVP and leader of that team that won the ring in 2021.
The Bucks, who secured the 10th overall pick in last night’s draft lottery, face a crucial summer for the franchise’s future. Their project would be very different if their star player leaves, and they would begin a rebuilding process that would kick off in the 2026 draft.
According to ESPN, there will be a large market to acquire Giannis’s services, with several teams in the league interested in the Greek star.
The Bucks engaged in Antetokounmpo trade talks before the February deadline as the franchise cornerstone believed for a period of months that the time had come to part ways. They now will again after co-owner Jimmy Haslam stated a resolution is coming before the draft on June 23 and 24. Nothing has changed in Antetokounmpo’s stance that the time has come for both sides to move on, according to the same report.
Per ESPN, rival executives believe that Antetokounmpo’s desired teams will be the largest factor in his trade destination. He is essentially on an expiring contract with next season guaranteed in his deal before a player option in 2027, providing him leverage to navigate to a specific team based on whether he would agree to stay long term given the players and picks needed to acquire him. He becomes eligible for a four-year, $275 million contract extension Oct. 1 if he is not traded, or six months after being traded with a new team. “The conversation will be simple: Where does [Giannis] want to be moved and where will he sign long term?” one source with direct involvement in the situation told ESPN.
Giannis Antetokounmpo averaged 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds and 5.4 assists in the only 36 games he has played this season (the lowest number of his career).
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