Giannis Antetokounmpo may have a new suitor from The Lone Star State.
The disgruntled Milwaukee Bucks superstar forward Antetokounmpo could potentially be pursued this offseason by the Houston Rockets. Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated made that claim during the latest episode of the “Open Floor” podcast.
“I believe the Rockets are going to try to make a run at Giannis Antetokounmpo in the offseason,” said Mannix, per Rockets Wire. “So that looms. But I don’t believe the results of this year will result in them blowing it up.”
The Rockets have largely failed to meet expectations this season and currently sit at 43-28, which is No. 6 in the Western Conference. But they effectively have a win-now mandate after trading for former MVP forward Kevin Durant, 37, over the summer and subsequently extending him through 2027 (with Durant also holding a player option for the 2027-28 season).
As for Antetokounmpo, 31, he will once again be the NBA’s hottest trade candidate come the offseason. He is also currently at odds with the Bucks again over a reported disagreement with his playing status that just sprung up over the last few days.
Houston could make a very strong player-centric offer to the Bucks for Antetokounmpo, potentially including the likes of multi-time All-Star Alperen Sengun, 23, All-Defensive First Teamer Amen Thompson, 23, former No. 3 overall pick Jabari Smith Jr, 22, and/or rising second-year guard Reed Sheppard, 21. That said, the Rockets will likely have to contend with at least one giant from the West in order to secure Antetokounmpo’s services here.
