There have been increasing signs for some time that Giannis Antetokounmpo’s long and successful time could come to an end in the upcoming offseason. While the Greek has recently left his future in Wisconsin open, the Houston Rockets appear to be seriously considering a trade for the superstar.
As NBA reporter Evan Sidery (Forbes) reports that the Texans are “likely” to approach the Milwaukee Bucks to negotiate a Giannis Antetokounmpo trade. The bitter and early playoff exit against the Los Angeles Lakers made the Houston Rockets believe that the squad needed a new coat of paint.
If the Bucks then agree to begin serious negotiations, the Rockets will probably have to put together a mega package for the exceptional Greek talent. According to the sports journalist, the franchise plans to include Alperen Sengun and Jabari Smith Jr. in the deal. In addition, there would be draft capital of an as yet unclear amount.
Trail Blazers also probably close to Giannis Antetokounmpo?
There had recently been rumors of Giannis moving to the Portland Trail Blazers. Like Jake Fischer (The People’s Insider) reported that the Blazers are said to have had intensive discussions with the Milwaukee Bucks about the 31-year-old. Now Portland is apparently preparing a massive package to lure the two-time MVP to the West Coast in new owner Thomas Dundon’s first offseason.
The core of the offer is said to revolve around Jerami Grant’s expiring contract, which would give the Bucks considerable financial flexibility. The decisive argument, however, lies in draft history: By trading Damian Lillard in 2023, Portland holds the Bucks’ first-round picks for 2028, 2029 and 2030.
“My decision is based on wins and a culture,” Antetokounmpo recently said in an interview with Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and continued his explanation with a look at the Bucks’ current roster. “Some players know how to win. Others don’t. It’s not because they don’t want to, it’s because they’ve never been on this stage before.”
He summarized his conditions for staying in Milwaukee as follows: “As long as we play good, organized basketball here, have a team that acts unselfishly and we pursue goals that are bigger than the individual, then I will be there.”
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