The 4 Teams Anteto Could Land on Before the Trade Deadline

Giannis Antetokounmpo is no longer just a distant dream for the rest of the NBA. The two-time MVP, still performing at a high level, is reportedly exploring an exit from Milwaukee after 13 seasons with the franchise, a scenario that opens the door to one of the most impactful possible trades in recent years. Although sources within the league suggest that the Bucks could wait until summer to make a move, that hasn't stopped several title contenders from preparing high-caliber offers before the next trade deadline on February 5th. Numerous NBA rumors are in play.

According to ESPN, four teams with immediate aspirations—Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, New York Knicks, and Minnesota Timberwolves—are among the most interested in acquiring Antetokounmpo. Using the HoopsMatic NBA Trade Machine, which takes into account not only players but also all available assets, different creative packages have been proposed to match salaries and address the needs of each franchise involved.

Golden State Warriors

Golden State reemerges as one of the major market influencers. It is the only one of the four teams that can offer four unprotected first-round picks, including a 2026 pick. To match salaries, the core of the offer would center around Jimmy Butler, currently injured and with a high team option for 2026-27, and Jonathan Kuminga. Milwaukee would add salary with Kyle Kuzma and a smaller contract to avoid issues with the apron, which would require the Bucks to free up a roster spot.

Miami Heat

The Heat, a regular in conversations for superstar acquisitions, has less draft flexibility but shorter contracts that could facilitate a rebuild in Milwaukee. Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro would be excluded from the deal, while Terry Rozier and Andrew Wiggins would be used to match salaries. Including Jaime Jaquez would introduce a developing young player, and the trade would also see Thanasis Antetokounmpo head to Miami.

New York Knicks

Lacking unprotected first-round picks, the Knicks need to devise a more complex structure. Karl-Anthony Towns emerges as the key available piece, but his fit in Milwaukee alongside Myles Turner is not ideal. Consequently, Portland enters the scene as a third team, bringing picks and taking on Towns. New York would acquire Giannis and Jrue Holiday, while the Bucks would receive Draft capital, a long-term starter like OG Anunoby, and contracts providing flexibility.

Minnesota Timberwolves

Minnesota also lacks unprotected first-round picks and considers Anthony Edwards untouchable. To enhance the offer, the trade would involve Houston, which would provide Draft assets in exchange for Jaden McDaniels. The Timberwolves would offer Julius Randle and minor contracts to match salaries, enabling Milwaukee to acquire players, picks, and flexibility, while Minnesota would add Giannis without giving up their own picks.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los 4 equipos en los que podría aterrizar Anteto antes del Trade Deadline