The New York Knicks will have a chance to go after Giannis Antetokounmpo this summer, and one trade package is apparently making the rounds. Knicks fans hope to make the NBA Finals this season in a loaded East battle with the Detroit Pistons, Boston Celtics, and Cleveland Cavaliers. However, they will have a chance to add a former two-time MVP if they fall short of the goal and want to go “big fish” hunting this summer.
Sports Illustrated revealed the most realistic trade package for Giannis that New York can offer:
New York Receives:
PF: Giannis Antetokounmpo
SG: Andre Jackson Jr.
Milwaukee Receives:
C: Karl-Anthony Towns
PG: Miles McBride
Draft Capital: 2026 first round pick (via WAS, top eight protected), 2027 second round pick, 2028 first round pick, 2030 first round pick, and 2032 first round pick
The Milwaukee Bucks have expressed more signs that the time has finally come for Antetokounmpo to part ways with the franchise. A lackluster roster makes it hard to contend any time soon. Things are getting uglier between both sides after Giannis reported the franchise to the league for not clearing him to play the final games this season.
Why The Trade Could Realistically Happen
The biggest variable for this trade revolves around Giannis’ desire to end up with the Knicks as his dream scenario after leaving Milwaukee. Last offseason featured Antetokounmpo naming New York as the only team that he’d accept a trade to. The Bucks talked Giannis into staying and giving the team another chance after adding Myles Turner.
However, this season has been a disaster, and Milwaukee’s ownership has already confirmed they’ll trade Antetokounmpo if he doesn’t extend his contract. Giannis holds some power and could scare other teams away by refusing to extend anywhere else but his top destination of New York.
The Bucks could be forced to accept a weaker package than they desire if Antetokounmpo runs off other interested teams. Four first round draft picks could certainly entice Milwaukee. Karl-Anthony Towns could be moved to another team for a young piece and more picks since he doesn’t easily fit the rebuilding plan.
Why The Trade Could Not Happen
The negative side of this forecasted trade still sees Milwaukee having to settle for a lackluster package compared to what other teams would offer. Bucks’ management losing most future draft picks in prior trades means they badly need to find young stars to build around once they lose Giannis.
Miles McBride is considered a role player that would do little to help their immediate future. Milwaukee reportedly liked the Miami Heat’s offer during the trade deadline. Tyler Herro and Kel’el Ware both present more potential for the Bucks to win games and develop talents with minimal draft picks of their own.
Antetokounmpo has reportedly viewed Miami as one of the only options outside of New York that he’d welcome. Other teams will join the equation this summer after getting eliminated from the playoffs and seeing an MVP on the market. The Knicks only get Giannis if Antetokounmpo forces his way there and blocks better trades for Milwaukee.
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