The prevailing expectation from rival executives is that the Milwaukee Bucks will not trade Giannis Antetokounmpo until right before the trade deadline on Thursday, and some are preparing for the possibility that no deal will be completed until the offseason, sources tell ESPN.
“I’m just not sure why it wouldn’t make sense to wait,” an East scout said. “They can see where the draft [lottery] is, and survey their options then.”
The Bucks have clearly indicated they are listening to Antetokounmpo trade offers for the first time, but general manager Jon Horst has signaled there is no urgency in the discussions. The Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat and New York Knicks have initially emerged as the teams with the most interest. The Los Angeles Lakers represent a team that could assemble a much stronger offer in the offseason.
There are four key reasons why the Bucks could wait until the offseason to execute an Antetokounmpo trade:
1. Antetokounmpo is currently sidelined multiple weeks with a calf injury. Any team acquiring him will be forced to sacrifice existing players in a trade, making it challenging to continue winning games before his return.
2. Teams will have access to more draft picks in June, and the Bucks will have the opportunity to evaluate the results of the 2026 lottery.
3. Teams with disappointing playoffs may be more motivated to enter the bidding for Antetokounmpo than they are currently.
4. Constructing a blockbuster trade is functionally easier in the offseason when roster limits are not an issue.