Report: Bucks open to Giannis Antetokounmpo trade ahead of draft

The Milwaukee Bucks are entering a pivotal stretch. Everything appears to be on the table with Giannis Antetokounmpo.

League and team sources told ESPN’s Shams Charania that Milwaukee is open to trade calls involving Antetokounmpo as the draft approaches. There is expected to be a strong market, with teams prepared to offer a young cornerstone player or a significant package of draft picks.

This is not a new development.

The Bucks explored trade scenarios before the February deadline, and Antetokounmpo has maintained that it may be time for both sides to move on. That stance has not changed, sources said.

Co-owner Jimmy Haslam made it clear a decision is coming soon.

“Sometime over the next six or seven weeks we’ll decide whether Giannis is going to sign a max contract and stay with us or he’s going to play somewhere else,” Haslam said.

Milwaukee is expected to work with Antetokounmpo on a resolution, whether that means an extension or a trade.

The backdrop is a disappointing season. The Bucks finished 32-50 and missed the postseason, ending a nine-year playoff run. The franchise has not won a playoff series since 2022.

There are still paths to keep him. The front office is exploring potential moves to reshape the roster and convince Antetokounmpo to stay, with multiple draft picks and tradable contracts available.

At the same time, interest around the league is building. Several teams are expected to pursue Antetokounmpo, and his preferred destination could ultimately shape the outcome.

The situation has been building for more than a year. Now it is reaching a decision point.