NBA Rumors: Giannis Antetokounmpo's Future Could Be in Texas

The time of Giannis Antetokounmpo with the Milwaukee Bucks could be coming to an end following their playoff elimination against the Indiana Pacers. A surprising report from ESPN's Shams Charania reveals that the Bucks' superstar is open to exploring an exit from Milwaukee.

The news has sparked a frenzy in the NBA world, with analysts speculating on possible destinations for the two-time MVP. Now, ESPN's Brian Windhorst believes that the San Antonio Spurs and the Houston Rockets are best positioned to make a compelling offer for Antetokounmpo.

"When considering a Giannis trade, two key factors matter for the Bucks. Firstly, they do not control their own first-round picks for the next five years, meaning they cannot afford to tank; they need win-now players in return. Secondly, trading Giannis to a super-team would not yield valuable draft picks as those picks would likely be late first-rounders. This is why teams like San Antonio and Houston stand out: they have young talent and additional draft assets from other teams," he explained.

Antetokounmpo will earn $54.1 million next season, roughly 35% of a team's salary cap. Both the Rockets and the Spurs would need to match that salary in a trade, potentially requiring them to part ways with key players.

Possible Trades

For Houston, a deal could involve Jalen Green or Alperen Sengun, as Fred VanVleet (assuming he opts) might not be enticing enough for Milwaukee. The Rockets could also include young assets like Jabari Smith Jr. or Tari Eason, along with future picks (such as Brooklyn's 2031 first-rounder and a 2027 swap) to sweeten the offer.

As for San Antonio, pairing Giannis with Victor Wembanyama would create a dominant frontcourt. However, the Spurs would likely have to trade Devin Vassell or Keldon Johnson to make the salaries work.

Their 2nd pick in this year's draft could also be a valuable bargaining chip, although they would prefer to keep Wembanyama, De'Aaron Fox, and Stephon Castle as their core.

With Giannis's future uncertain, all eyes will be on his next move, and whether the Spurs or Rockets can strike a major deal.

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