The Milwaukee Bucks never seriously entertained trading Giannis Antetokounmpo at the February trade deadline, largely because any suitor could sweeten their offer with more draft picks after the season. But with the playoffs revealing which teams are true contenders and which are pretenders, speculation about Giannis’ future has reignited, and multiple franchises are now believed to be in the mix.
One of the teams drawing attention is the Minnesota Timberwolves, who were eliminated in the Western Conference semifinals by the San Antonio Spurs, 4-2. According to Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic, Minnesota and Giannis shared mutual interest in a deal during the regular season. Antetokounmpo reportedly wanted to pair with Anthony Edwards, and the Timberwolves explored several multi-team trade options.
Other potential suitors include:
Cleveland Cavaliers – The Cavs explored Antetokounmpo’s availability earlier in the season. After trading Darius Garland for James Harden, Cleveland committed to a championship push. However, a second-round exit could push them to consider further roster changes, possibly even involving Evan Mobley, to make a deal for Giannis viable.
Portland Trail Blazers – According to The Oregonian, Portland is willing to pursue Giannis if he agrees to a long-term extension. With Damian Lillard re-signed and recovering from a ruptured Achilles, the Blazers also hold Milwaukee’s 2029 first-round pick and swaps in 2028 and 2030, giving them a rare asset other teams cannot offer.
Atlanta Hawks – Rich Paul suggested a Jalen Johnson-for-Giannis swap in January, highlighting Atlanta’s interest. The Hawks possess a young, talented roster and the No. 8 overall pick in the 2026 draft, making them a potential landing spot for the Greek Freak.
Houston Rockets – Previously considered a top destination for Giannis, the Rockets could offer young talent like Alperen Şengün or Amen Thompson, along with draft capital. However, they opted not to pursue Giannis midseason, preferring to see how their core developed.
Toronto Raptors – The Raptors have young assets like Collin Murray-Boyles, and pairing him with Giannis could form an enticing package for the Bucks. Toronto’s mix of youth and draft flexibility makes them a long-shot contender in trade talks.
Orlando Magic – Despite underperforming this season and firing head coach Jamahl Mosley, the Magic’s young core, including Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, might consider a shakeup with a superstar like Giannis leading the way.
Philadelphia 76ers – The Sixers’ trade path is complicated, especially with rookie VJ Edgecombe considered untouchable. However, new leadership could reimagine the roster and make a run at Giannis if they see him as the franchise cornerstone.
While Milwaukee’s openness to a trade is now reportedly higher, the stakes are monumental. Antetokounmpo is a generational talent whose presence could instantly alter the balance of power in the NBA. For Minnesota, adding him alongside Anthony Edwards could transform the Timberwolves from a promising team to a legitimate Western Conference contender.
The next offseason promises to be one of the most intriguing in recent NBA history, with Giannis Antetokounmpo at the center of all trade speculation.
