Rival teams view Bucks’ asking price for Giannis Antetokounmpo as too steep

The Bucks may be finding that trading Giannis Antetokounmpo is easier said than done.

According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, rival teams interested in acquiring the two-time MVP believe Milwaukee’s asking price remains unrealistically high.

League sources told Fischer that the Bucks are seeking a return package so substantial that it could leave a potential trade partner without enough talent to seriously contend afterward.

The Timberwolves are one example.

Fischer reported that Minnesota pursued Antetokounmpo prior to the trade deadline and recently checked in again, only to find Milwaukee’s asking price had increased from where it stood a few months ago.

At the same time, the market for Antetokounmpo may not be as robust as many expected.

According to Fischer, the Rockets, Thunder, Spurs and Knicks have not aggressively pursued the Bucks star despite widespread speculation linking each team to the 10-time All-Star.

The Celtics remain one of the teams most frequently connected to Antetokounmpo. However, Fischer reported that while Boston understands a deal would likely require Jaylen Brown, there is hesitation about significantly sweetening an offer beyond the All-NBA wing.

Around the league, there is a growing belief that Milwaukee is using Miami’s proposal as a baseline while exploring whether a stronger package emerges before the start of next week’s draft.

Per Fischer, the framework of the Heat’s offer includes Tyler Herro, Kel’el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr. and the No. 13 overall pick, with additional assets potentially involved as well.

Whether that package — or any other — ultimately satisfies Milwaukee remains one of the biggest questions hanging over the NBA offseason.