Trade speculation surrounds Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo as he assesses his future with the team while sidelined by a calf injury. Reports indicate the Bucks could pursue a full rebuild, potentially trading key players like Myles Turner and Kyle Kuzma if Antetokounmpo requests a move. Potential destinations include the New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the two-time NBA MVP, is expected to miss 2-4 weeks due to a calf strain, fueling ongoing trade rumors about his tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks. Antetokounmpo and his agent are reportedly evaluating his options over the next few weeks, with a possible trade request on the horizon as early as December 15, when many contracts become tradable.
If Antetokounmpo departs, the Bucks plan a complete roster reset, according to reports from Jake Fischer. Players like Bobby Portis, Kyle Kuzma, and Myles Turner could be moved. Turner, signed to a four-year, $108.86 million deal in the offseason, has averaged 12.4 points on 43.5% shooting from the floor in 23 games this season—a career low.
Several teams are positioning for a blockbuster deal. The New York Knicks remain a top suitor, with Antetokounmpo expressing interest in playing there during summer discussions. A proposed trade could send Antetokounmpo, Kuzma, and Thanasis Antetokounmpo to New York in exchange for Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, draft swaps, and second-round picks.
Mock trades highlight other possibilities: Atlanta could offer Trae Young, Zaccharie Risacher, Dyson Daniels, Kristaps Porziņģis, and first-round picks for Antetokounmpo, Kuzma, and Turner. Orlando might propose Franz Wagner and Anthony Black. Cleveland could target Antetokounmpo with Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen in a multi-team deal, while Indiana and Portland have also been floated as sleeper options.
League executives note hesitation in offering multiple first-round picks due to Antetokounmpo's age—turning 31 soon—and upcoming contract extension demands. As the Bucks slide in the Eastern Conference, the situation could reshape the NBA landscape before the trade deadline.