The Milwaukee Bucks Are Toast: Trading Giannis Antetokounmpo May Be the Only Path Forward
The Milwaukee Bucks, once the pride of the NBA with a championship in 2021 and a roster anchored by two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, now find themselves at a crossroads. After a third consecutive first-round playoff exit and the devastating Achilles injury to star guard Damian Lillard, the franchise’s future is uncertain. With limited financial flexibility, a lack of draft assets, and an aging core, the Bucks face a harsh reality: trading Giannis Antetokounmpo might be the only viable path forward.
The Decline of the Milwaukee Bucks
The 2024–25 NBA season marked a significant downturn for the Bucks. Despite the acquisition of Damian Lillard in 2023 to pair with Antetokounmpo, the team struggled to find success. In the first round of the playoffs, the Bucks were eliminated by the Indiana Pacers in a dramatic Game 5, despite a triple-double performance from Antetokounmpo. This marked their third consecutive first-round exit, raising questions about the team’s direction and future.
Compounding the team’s woes, Damian Lillard suffered a torn Achilles tendon during the playoffs, an injury that is expected to sideline him for most, if not all, of the upcoming season. Lillard’s injury further weakens the Bucks’ championship aspirations and highlights the fragility of their current roster. With Lillard’s lucrative contract extension set to begin soon, the team’s financial flexibility is severely limited, making it challenging to make significant roster improvements.
The Case for Trading Giannis Antetokounmpo
Given the Bucks’ current predicament, trading Giannis Antetokounmpo may be the most prudent course of action. Antetokounmpo, at 30 years old, remains one of the league’s premier talents, averaging 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game. However, with the team’s championship window closing and limited resources to build a competitive roster, retaining Antetokounmpo may not be in the franchise’s best interest.
Trading Antetokounmpo could provide the Bucks with valuable assets, including young talent and future draft picks, which are essential for a successful rebuild. The Brooklyn Nets, New York Knicks, and Houston Rockets are among the teams reportedly interested in acquiring Antetokounmpo, each possessing the necessary assets to facilitate a trade. For instance, the Rockets could offer a package including Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, Reed Sheppard, and multiple first-round picks, providing the Bucks with a strong foundation for rebuilding .
Furthermore, trading Antetokounmpo now, while his value is at its peak, would allow the Bucks to maximize their return and expedite the rebuilding process. Waiting until he becomes a free agent or his performance declines could result in a diminished return, hindering the team’s efforts to rebuild effectively.
Potential Trade Destinations
- Brooklyn Nets: The Nets have been long rumored to be interested in Antetokounmpo. With a plethora of draft assets and financial flexibility, Brooklyn could offer a compelling package. However, the team’s current roster may not be ready to contend for a championship, which could be a concern for Antetokounmpo .
- New York Knicks: The Knicks have a history of pursuing star players and could be an attractive destination for Antetokounmpo. With a solid supporting cast and the bright lights of New York, the Knicks could offer a competitive environment for the superstar.
- Houston Rockets: The Rockets have a young and promising roster, along with a significant number of draft picks. Acquiring Antetokounmpo could accelerate their rebuilding process and make them a formidable team in the Western Conference .
- Miami Heat: The Heat have been mentioned as a potential landing spot for both Ja Morant and Antetokounmpo. While the salary cap logistics are complex, the Heat’s championship pedigree and competitive environment could appeal to Antetokounmpo .
The Bucks’ Rebuilding Strategy
Should the Bucks proceed with trading Antetokounmpo, the focus must shift to rebuilding the team through a combination of young talent and future draft picks. The lack of first-round draft picks until 2031 limits the team’s ability to add top-tier talent through the draft, making trades and player development crucial components of the rebuilding strategy .
Additionally, the Bucks will need to assess their current roster and make decisions about which players to retain and which to move. With several key players approaching free agency and limited financial resources, the team must prioritize flexibility and long-term potential over short-term gains.
