The Giannis Antetokounmpo era in Milwaukee is on the verge of ending. After more than a decade of dominance, the two-time MVP has reportedly told the Bucks he wants out, setting the stage for one of the biggest trades in NBA history.
ESPN's Shams Charania dropped the bombshell Wednesday, saying, “Giannis has made it clear to the Bucks that he believes the time has come for both sides to part ways.” The Bucks, Charania added, are now “officially open for business” and fielding offers from around the league.
Antetokounmpo, 31, has been the heart and soul of the franchise since arriving as a raw teenager in 2013. He led Milwaukee to its first title in 50 years during the 2020-21 season, earning Finals MVP honors. This season, despite being limited to 59 games due to a hyperextended knee, he averaged 27.6 points and 9.8 rebounds per game, earning his ninth All-NBA selection.
The Bucks shut him down in mid-March, a move that drew an NBA investigation. Antetokounmpo said he was healthy enough to play, but the team cited the knee injury. Many believed the shutdown was a precursor to a potential trade, and that speculation has now turned into reality.
Milwaukee has Antetokounmpo under contract through the 2026-27 season, with a $62.7 million player option for 2027-28. Given his desire to leave, he’s unlikely to exercise that option. The NBA has since closed its probe into the Bucks' handling of his injury, but the trade door is now wide open.
So where could the Greek Freak land? The Golden State Warriors and Miami Heat have been linked to him for months. Both teams have the assets—young players, picks, and contracts—to make a deal work. But a new suitor has emerged: the Boston Celtics.
After blowing a 3-1 series lead in the first round of the playoffs, the Celtics are reportedly exploring a blockbuster trade. ESPN's Bobby Marks noted that acquiring Antetokounmpo would likely cost them either Jaylen Brown or Jayson Tatum. “Brown is extension-eligible starting July 26 and has three seasons remaining. His salary next season is $57.1 million. Tatum has four years left on his contract and makes the identical salary as Antetokounmpo,” Marks wrote.
The Bucks are expected to move quickly. With the NBA Draft approaching, teams are lining up their best offers. The next few weeks will determine where one of the league's most dominant forces will spend the next chapter of his career.
