The Giannis Antetokounmpo trade saga is ongoing, though not yet at a breaking point. The Milwaukee Bucks are struggling with a 9-13 record, limited draft assets, and $20 million tied up in Damian Lillard’s contract, making a near-future championship unlikely. Even if Giannis stays, the team is barely surviving.
Antetokounmpo has subtly indicated a desire to be traded, a process that might repeat before any final deal is reached. If traded, here’s how 29 NBA teams rank as possible new homes for him, based on what they’d give up, Giannis’ interest in playing there, and the teams’ interest in acquiring him:
Tier XI: No re-sign possibility
Teams like the Sacramento Kings, Charlotte Hornets, Washington Wizards, Utah Jazz, and Memphis Grizzlies fall into this category. The Kings are historically the least appealing for an MVP-level star due to poor management and market size. The Hornets and Wizards face similar challenges but are somewhat better run. Utah and Memphis have promising setups but aren’t attractive destinations for Giannis or stars in general, especially given location and Western Conference ties.
Tier X: Insufficient assets for trade
Teams such as the Phoenix Suns, Minnesota Timberwolves, Denver Nuggets, Dallas Mavericks, and Los Angeles Clippers lack the necessary trade assets or young players to make a convincing offer for Giannis. The Suns are hesitant after recent unsuccessful star acquisitions, while Minnesota and Denver lack All-Star support. Dallas can trade but has few valuable young players, and the Clippers focus on free agency due to trading limitations.
Tier IX: Respectful re-sign potential
The Oklahoma City Thunder, as a dominant team (21-1 record), has no pressing need to trade but might consider acquiring Giannis more to block rivals than for themselves.
Tier VIII: Trade facilitators
The New Orleans Pelicans and Portland Trail Blazers control several Milwaukee draft picks and could be involved in multi-team deals but are less likely destinations for Giannis himself.
Tier VII: Loyalty to current stars
Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, and Orlando Magic might be interested, but full trades are complex due to the high value of current key players like Jayson Tatum and Joel Embiid.
Tier VI: Right market, wrong timing
Chicago Bulls and Brooklyn Nets have assets and markets but lack readiness or complementary rosters to maximize Giannis’ impact immediately.
Tier V: Cap space contortions
The Cleveland Cavaliers could hypothetically pull off a trade with tricky salary cap maneuvers involving key players like Evan Mobley, but it’s complicated and unlikely soon.
Tier IV: Rental gambles
Toronto Raptors, Indiana Pacers, and Atlanta Hawks could take the risk on a short-term rental of Giannis to push for a playoff run, though it might disrupt their long-term plans.
Tier III: Established powerhouses
Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors, and Los Angeles Lakers represent legacy teams who could attract Giannis, with complex trade scenarios and fit considerations but strong appeal.
Tier II: Young, asset-rich contenders
Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets, and San Antonio Spurs hold promise with young cores and valuable assets, making them preferred trade partners if they’re willing to commit.
Tier I: Heart’s desire
The New York Knicks top the list as Giannis’ preferred destination, with the most trade discussions historically. While the Knicks’ asset situation isn’t ideal, Giannis’ preference could give them leverage, forcing other teams to reconsider offers.
Fan Take: This ongoing saga is pivotal for the NBA as it highlights how a megastar like Giannis can shift team dynamics and league balance. If traded, his move could ignite a new era for whichever franchise lands him, reshaping the competitive landscape and thrilling basketball fans worldwide.
