The Milwaukee Bucks have reportedly revived discussions about trading star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo ahead of this year’s NBA draft, according to ESPN. This comes after the team previously explored similar options before the trade deadline earlier in the season, only to inform interested parties they would hold onto the two-time MVP until at least the offseason.
Bucks co-owner Jimmy Haslam stated last week that the organization aims to clarify Antetokounmpo’s future by the draft, scheduled for June 23-24. “Over the next six or seven weeks, we’ll determine whether Giannis signs a max extension and remains with us or moves elsewhere,” Haslam told reporters. “General manager Jon Horst, new coach Taylor Jenkins, co-owner Wes Edens, and I will make that decision, and we understand how significant it is.”
The report indicates Milwaukee is seeking established young talent or a substantial collection of draft picks in return for Antetokounmpo. The 10-time All-Star and nine-time All-NBA selection has averaged 24.1 points, 9.9 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.2 blocks, and 1.1 steals over 13 seasons and 895 games (830 starts) with the Bucks. He led the franchise to its first NBA championship in 50 years during the 2021 playoffs.
At 31 years old, Antetokounmpo played a career-low 36 games this season due to groin, calf, and knee injuries. His last appearance was on March 15, but he told reporters in early April that he was healthy and being held out by the team. “I’m available to play, but I’m not in the game,” he said. “For someone to tell me not to play or compete feels like a slap in the face. I don’t know where the relationship goes from there.”
Antetokounmpo is set to earn $58.46 million in the 2026-27 season and holds a player option for 2027-28.
The NBA draft lottery took place Sunday, with the Washington Wizards securing the No. 1 pick and the Bucks landing the 10th overall selection. The draft combine begins Monday in Chicago.
