Milwaukee Bucks engage on Giannis Antetokounmpo: counteroffers sent

03/02/202608:42

Milwaukee Bucks

ESPN reports that, with three days to the deadline, Milwaukee is actively talking with multiple suitors and seeking a young blue-chip piece and/or a haul of picks

With three days left before the NBA trade deadline, the market for Giannis Antetokounmpo is picking up: the Milwaukee Bucks have issued counteroffers to teams pushing hard for a deal, per ESPN citing sources relayed by Shams Charania. After years of resisting the idea of moving their two-time MVP, Milwaukee is now said to be actively engaging a handful of teams on a potential franchise-altering trade.

Among the most active suitors mentioned are the Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors and the New York Knicks. Sitting at 18-29 and coming off a fifth straight loss after Sunday’s blowout versus the Boston Celtics, the Bucks are reportedly seeking a young blue-chip talent and/or a surplus of draft picks in return.

ESPN also reports that Giannis Antetokounmpo has told the organization for months he believes it’s time to move on after 12-plus years together. He’s played 30 games this season, averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds and 5.6 assists on 64% shooting, but is currently sidelined with a right calf injury he estimated at 4–6 weeks, with no official team timeline.