With the NBA Trade Deadline right around the block, there’s one major storyline fans are eagerly waiting for — Giannis Antetokounmpo’s trade. The shining star that turned the Milwaukee Bucks team around, rumors about the Greek Freak’s departure from the team have been taking over the NBA world.
Various factors, like the Bucks’ performance, have been attributed to the same, ultimately eliciting various destinations for Antetokounmpo.
New Team Lands on Giannis Antetokounmpo Watch As NBA Trade Deadline Inches Closer
With a championship under his belt and consistent stats for years, Antetokounmpo is easily one of the best players the NBA has ever seen. And though few believe his loyalty to Milwaukee remains unchanged, there’s ample buzz around his trade rumors.
Naturally, Antetokounmpo’s excellent record has drawn multiple rumors, with many teams aiming to secure their next title by acquiring the 31-year-old.
However, according to longtime NBA insider Ramona Shelburne, the Charlotte Hornets might emerge as a possible contender.
While on ESPN’s “Mason and Ireland” show, Shelburne described the current situation as she said, “I think there are other teams that we have not talked about that would be very surprising that are also making calls (on Giannis Antetokounmpo). I think Charlotte is an interesting team, I’ve heard that name out there…”
The reaction to Shelburne’s comment was instantaneous. Many NBA fans dismissed the suggestion, convinced that Antetokounmpo is probably headed to the Miami Heat.
However, Shelburne’s report wasn’t unfounded. With the Hornets in a position to sign new players with a 23-28 record in the Eastern Conference, they have a good chance of trying for a player like Antetokounmpo.
If they land Antetokounmpo, not only can they try to make the playoffs in 2026, but they also hope to regroup and refocus during the upcoming 2026-27 season.
NBA analyst Jake Weinbach discussed the Hornets’ plan, suggesting that the team can have something up its sleeve before the NBA Trade Deadline on Feb. 5.
“The Hornets are expected to be active on the market with hopes of upgrading the roster before this week’s trade buzzer. Nic Claxton, Myles Turner, and Daniel Gafford are among the names of possible center targets that Charlotte should consider to strengthen its front courtm,” Weinbach explained.
Having said that, teams like the Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors, and New York Knicks have been listed as possible landing spots for Antetokounmpo.
Though the Heat remain leading contenders, many have also suggested a Jimmy Butler III-Antetkounmpo swap for the Warriors.
With the Bucks since his draft in 2013, Antetokounmpo is currently averaging 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game while shooting 64.5% from the field.
