The future of Giannis Antetokounmpo remains one of the most talked-about topics in the NBA, as reports indicate the Greek superstar has yet to make a firm decision about his long-term stay with the Milwaukee Bucks.
According to a recent report by James L. Edwards III of The Athletic, the New York Knicks have been closely monitoring Giannis Antetokounmpo’s situation for some time and consider the Greek star their primary target on the market.
“It is my understanding that Leon Rose (Knicks president) and company have been monitoring Giannis Antetokounmpo’s situation in Milwaukee very closely, even before the offseason started,” Edwards reported.
“Many around the league believe the Knicks are interested in star hunting, and while that opportunity hasn’t popped up yet, I certainly believe it’s in the cards if the right situation presents itself,” he added.
Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks walks to the bench during a game against the Indiana Pacers in the NBA Emirates Cup at Fiserv Forum. (Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Rumors of a potential Giannis Antetokounmpo trade have intensified following recent reports from ESPN insider Shams Charania, who noted that nothing regarding the Bucks star’s future is definitive.
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NBA Rumors: Giannis Antetokounmpo reportedly on the Knicks’ radar, but New York must make a bold decision to land him
“There’s nothing set in stone from my conversations, really, on both sides, that he is for sure staying or deciding to leave,” Charania said during an appearance on the “Kyle, Brust, and Nortman” show on ESPN Milwaukee, adding further uncertainty to Antetokounmpo’s long-term outlook in Milwaukee.
The Knicks have already signaled their intent to contend for an NBA championship next season, locking up Mikal Bridges on a lucrative $150 million contract extension. However, if New York were to pursue a trade for Antetokounmpo, it would require a substantial package to pry him away from the Bucks.
Jalen Brunson is unlikely to be included in any potential deal, making Karl–Anthony Towns and other key assets the most realistic trade pieces in such a scenario.
