Trade destinations for Giannis Antetokounmpo have already begun to materialize as the Milwaukee Bucks face a long offseason. Despite acquiring Damian Lillard with hopes of winning an NBA championship, the Bucks have once again been eliminated in the first round—this time by the Indiana Pacers.
Given that the Pacers are younger and relatively inexperienced compared to Milwaukee, losing to them for a second consecutive year is a disastrous result. Antetokounmpo continues to put up elite numbers regardless of the team’s success, and his recent comments about wanting to win another title have fueled growing trade speculation.
Can the Lakers or Knicks Make a Move for Giannis Antetokounmpo?
According to a report from The Ringer, the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks are among Antetokounmpo’s preferred destinations—if he and the Bucks decide to explore trade options.
Pairing Antetokounmpo with Luka Dončić and LeBron James may seem like a fantasy, but his elite rim protection and interior presence would make it feel like the Lakers never lost Anthony Davis—maybe even upgrading from him.
With the Lakers bounced in the first round and expected to build around Dončić, this outcome might not be far-fetched. Even if James retires, a Dončić-Antetokounmpo pairing would instantly make L.A. a title contender.
Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks are among Giannis Antetokounmpo’s preferences should he and the Bucks decide to explore a trade this offseason 👀
(via The Ringer) pic.twitter.com/RCElT6ZKOD
— Basketball Forever (@bballforever_)
Another potential landing spot is New York. Antetokounmpo reportedly has interest in the Knicks, and teaming up with Jalen Brunson offers him a new path to a second title. Many view the Knicks’ core as stronger and deeper than Milwaukee’s current group built around Lillard.
The Bucks’ supporting cast was heavily criticized for falling short in the playoffs, and Antetokounmpo may decide it’s time for a change—perhaps to Madison Square Garden. Antetokounmpo, Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and whichever former Villanova standout the Knicks still have after the potential trade would boast arguably the best roster in the Eastern Conference, and maybe even the league.
It all hinges on internal discussions between Antetokounmpo and the Bucks this summer. If the front office can’t convince him they’re still committed to building a championship roster, the odds of a trade to New York or Los Angeles could rise dramatically.
Bucks fans will be watching closely for any offseason changes. Most will likely be aimed at keeping Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee. But if the franchise decides a reset is needed, they could opt to part ways.
As of now, there’s no public indication from ownership or upper management on their long-term direction. Only time will tell whether Antetokounmpo remains in a Bucks uniform next season.
