There has been a lot of recent speculation that the Milwaukee Bucks could explore the possibility of trading Giannis Antetokounmpo this season, but one prominent NBA reporter does not see that happening.
In an ESPN column that was published on Friday morning, Brian Windhorst wrote that the idea of the Bucks trading Antetokounmpo in the near future is “not a reality as of now.” Teams have expressed interest in acquiring the two-time NBA MVP, however.
“Teams have let the Bucks know in recent months they would make an offer for the Greek Freak if that day ever comes,” Windhorst wrote. “But those are incoming calls, not outgoing and it’s likely to remain that way.”
Windhorst also said that the Bucks would like to add talent around Giannis and Damian Lillard, which is a good indication that they are not panicking in the wake of their 2-6 start to the season.
The Bucks signed Antetokounmpo to a 3-year, $186 million extension a year ago. They have one of the highest payrolls in the NBA and currently qualify as a second-apron team, which will make it difficult for them to acquire impact players. Obviously, their goal with extending Giannis and bringing in Lillard was to contend for championships, and they do not plan to abandon that plan just yet.
In the unlikely invited that the Bucks change their mind, a couple of teams have already been floated as potential Antetokounmpo suitors.
Though Milwaukee is struggling as a team, Giannis has looked as good as ever through the early part of the season. He is averaging 31.0 points, 12.9 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game.
H/T Bleacher Report
