Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Rumors: East Contender Predicted to Pull Off 'Wild' Deal For $186M Bucks Superstar

Speculation has arisen about the potential for the Milwaukee Bucks to trade two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, fueled by a hypothetical trade scenario involving the Atlanta Hawks presented by Bleacher Report's Connor Thoms.

Thoms proposed a trade where the Hawks would acquire Antetokounmpo. In return, the Bucks would receive a package centered around forward Jalen Johnson, guard Kobe Bufkin, and 2024 No. 1 overall pick Zaccharie Risacher. Milwaukee would also acquire four future first-round picks and a first-round pick swap, with some picks owned by the Hawks originating from other teams adding flexibility and value.

Thoms justified the assets, highlighting Johnson's potential as a future All-Star despite injury, Risacher's upside as a top pick wing, and Bufkin's potential. He noted the Bucks could potentially "mix and match" picks from different teams. However, Thoms estimated the odds of the trade actually happening are low ("probably 80/20 or 70/30" in favor of Giannis staying), though he believes the return for Milwaukee would be "phenomenal".

This speculative idea surfaces as the Bucks face a crossroads, having suffered three consecutive first-round playoff exits and failing to advance past the second round since their 2021 championship, despite having Antetokounmpo.

Antetokounmpo, 30, remains under contract with the Bucks for $186 million. While ESPN's Shams Charania reported earlier in the postseason that Giannis was "open-minded" about his future, more recent public comments from the player indicate he will "probably" stay in Milwaukee, emphasizing his love for the city. Bucks president Peter Feigin also stated both sides were "in a good place," suggesting stability.