Giannis Antetokounmpo trade rumors: These are the NBA teams where the Greek superstar could end up

The clock is finally running out on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s time with the Milwaukee Bucks. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the franchise is now open to taking calls and trade proposals for the Greek superstar — a turning point after nearly two years of tension, speculation, and behind‑the‑scenes frustration.

With the draft less than six weeks away (June 23–24. 8 p.m. ET) — and the lottery already in the books, the Bucks appear ready to move on from the player who transformed the franchise and delivered its first title in 50 years back in 2021. What was once a love story has been fading for a long time, and both sides now seem prepared to start fresh.

What Milwaukee wants in return

Milwaukee is seeking either a young star or a high lottery pick in exchange for Giannis. The Bucks quietly explored deals before February’s trade deadline, as Antetokounmpo had already made it clear he believed it was time to part ways. But no offer came close to their asking price.

Now, co‑owner Jimmy Haslam says a resolution will come before the draft. As he put it during the introduction of new head coach Taylor Jenkins: “In the next six or seven weeks we’ll decide whether Giannis signs a max contract and stays with us or plays somewhere else.”

Despite Jenkins insisting he has a strong relationship with Giannis, the organization appears fed up with the star’s behind‑the‑scenes maneuvering in recent seasons. The franchise is finally ready to move on.

Who’s in the mix? Several contenders already called

Before the February deadline, multiple teams checked in on Giannis, including:

The Knicks made a push, but Milwaukee refused to send him to a direct Eastern Conference rival — even though Giannis reportedly prefers to stay in the East. Boston is considered one of the strongest candidates. The Lakers remain a long shot, with their cap flexibility hinging on what LeBron James decides to do.

League executives believe Giannis’ preferred destinations will ultimately dictate where he lands. His contract gives him leverage: next season is guaranteed, and he holds a player option for 2027, allowing him to steer negotiations.

A franchise in decline — and a superstar ready to leave

The Bucks have unraveled since their 2021 championship. Questionable decisions — including trading Jrue Holiday for Damian Lillard, a move that never clicked — left the team stuck at 32–50, 11th in the East, missing both the Play‑In and the playoffs.

Giannis, now 31, averaged 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists in just 36 games. He was pulled from team activities late in the season due to a knee injury — a move the NBA even investigated — as Milwaukee prioritized protecting his health ahead of a potential blockbuster trade.

A trade involving Antetokounmpo would shake the NBA to its core. And now, with Milwaukee officially listening, the countdown has begun.

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