In July, Giannis Antetokounmpo met with his agent Giorgos Panou and Milwaukee Bucks general manager Jon Horst in Athens. During this meeting, he raised concerns regarding the Bucks’ ability to compete for an NBA championship. Sources indicate that he was exploring potential alternate paths for his career and seriously considered his future with the team.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Concerns
Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP, expressed significant doubts about Milwaukee’s title prospects. This offseason marked the first instance where he actively sought his options outside of the Bucks. Reports from ESPN’s Shams Charania revealed that only one team piqued his interest: the New York Knicks.
Discussions Between Bucks and Knicks
Following Giannis’ inquiries about the Bucks’ roster, discussions took place between the Bucks and Knicks in August. However, these talks did not gain traction for a trade involving the star forward. Milwaukee sources indicated a preference to retain Antetokounmpo, while Knicks sources felt the Bucks were not genuinely interested in trading him.
Trade Limitations for Knicks
- The Knicks currently possess only one tradable first-round pick.
- This pick is heavily protected, likely turning into two second-round picks.
- A potential trade would have to include high player value, with limited appeal among Knicks’ veteran stars.
Future Implications for Giannis and the Bucks
After the unsuccessful talks, the Bucks signed Giannis’ brother, Thanasis Antetokounmpo, committing to begin the season with Giannis on their roster. Despite this, there is anticipation that he will reassess his position based on the team’s performance in the early season.
Charania noted that the 2025–26 season is viewed as a critical year for Milwaukee. Giannis is under contract until at least 2026–27, with a player option for the following season. At a recent media day, Antetokounmpo neither dismissed the trade speculation nor definitively stated his commitment to the Bucks. He reiterated his goal of winning another championship.
Public Perception and Future Moves
Executives from rival teams suggest that if Giannis sought a trade, a more public approach may have been necessary. However, he refrained from applying pressure on the organization during the offseason, adhering to his reserved personality.
This ongoing situation highlights the uncertainty surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future with the Milwaukee Bucks and the potential impact of their early-season performance on his career decisions.
