New York Knicks and Milwaukee Bucks Discussed A Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade This Summer

This offseason was another big one for the NBA, with some of the league's big stars making moves, but perhaps the biggest story revolved around Giannis Antetokounmpo and his future with the Milwaukee Bucks. After another disappointing exit from the NBA Playoffs, there was plenty of speculation about whether or not he would depart the team, but as of right now, he's committed to the team for 2025–26.

Much of that speculation around Antetokounmpo centered around New York, as recent reports had revealed that was where he wanted to end up. Now, that has all been confirmed, with Shams Charania revealing that outside of Milwaukee, landing with the New York Knicks was the only thing that interested the two-time MVP.

Then, Ian Begley followed it up with a report that revealed the two sides talked about a deal, but nothing came close, although the Knicks will still continue to monitor his situation in Milwaukee closely.

"A source confirmed to SNY NBA Insider Ian Begley that the Knicks and Bucks had cursory talks about an Antetokounmpo deal in August, as ESPN first reported. The talks did not reach an advanced level.

Begley reports that winning a title in New York appeals to Antetokounmpo and would be one reason why he sees them as a destination.

Per Begley, the Knicks - and many other teams - have monitored Antetokounmpo's situation and will continue to do so."

Ultimately, New York and Antetokounmpo are a match made in heaven, but with limited assets, the two parties would need to work to make a deal happen, so this remains a story to keep a very close eye on. 

Written by Nathan Smith

Nathan Smith is a sports writer from Australia residing in Canada. He has covered the NHL, NBA, NFL and MLB for the past decade for various online publications, with sports being his biggest passion in life.