What a Giannis Antetokounmpo trade could look like (in 2026)

ESPN's Shams Charania reported that Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has expressed a preference for a trade to the New York Knicks, adding credibility to offseason speculation. Unlike past rumors involving other stars, this feels more genuine due to the Knicks' stable infrastructure, existing talent, and consistent playoff presence, positioning them as a desirable destination for a player seeking to join a contender in a major market.

Although the Knicks and Bucks discussed a potential trade during the offseason, no deal materialized, as Milwaukee is unlikely to move Giannis unless the situation becomes unmanageable. However, the mere occurrence of these discussions and the leak of the report suggest that Giannis may be considering his options beyond the Bucks, even as the Knicks focus on their 2025-26 season with aspirations to win the Eastern Conference for the first time in 27 years.

The Knicks face significant hurdles in acquiring Giannis, as they lack the best trade package compared to other teams. Their only realistic path would involve Giannis leveraging his contract situation by threatening not to re-sign with any team except the Knicks, though this is unlikely given his non-confrontational history and the Knicks' future cap space limitations in 2027.

In terms of assets, the Knicks have limited draft picks after the Mikal Bridges trade but could offer valuable future picks, such as their 2033 first-rounder. Potential trade pieces include Karl-Anthony Towns, though his defensive fit is questionable, or wings like Bridges or OG Anunoby, but navigating salary cap aprons and the Bucks' needs would be challenging.

The Bucks might consider acquiring win-now talent in a Giannis trade rather than rebuilding outright, as their own draft pick situation could influence their approach. This adds complexity to any potential deal, emphasizing that a trade would require strategic maneuvering from both sides.