NBA Rumors: The Bucks Ready to Negotiate for Giannis Antetokounmpo with 7 Title Contenders

What seemed like a remote possibility a few months ago is now practically a reality. Milwaukee Bucks is officially open to hearing offers for Giannis Antetokounmpo, and the future of the franchise's superstar seems to be away from Wisconsin.

According to insider Shams Charania, the organization has set the NBA Draft on June 23 as the deadline to finalize a possible deal for the two-time MVP and the 2021 Finals champion. Therefore, interested franchises have only six weeks to submit their best offers for one of the most impactful players in the league.

Several major franchises are already being identified as the top candidates to go after Antetokounmpo. The mentioned teams include Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Golden State Warriors.

Cleveland and New York, highly attentive

Cleveland has been in rumors related to Giannis for a while. In fact, according to various reports, the Cavaliers had previously turned down a proposal that many NBA insiders would have accepted. On the other hand, Antetokounmpo's interest in the New York Knicks is not new. Conversations about the Greek's possible arrival at the New York franchise took place last summer, but both parties failed to reach a satisfactory deal for the transfer.

Miami Heat once again emerges as one of the usual destinations linked to Giannis. The Florida franchise has been associated with the player for years and reportedly has pieces that could facilitate such a significant deal. Other teams like Minnesota Timberwolves, Boston Celtics, and Los Angeles Lakers also tried to explore a deal for Antetokounmpo during the last February trade deadline.

Charania also points out that the outcome of the 2026 playoffs will significantly impact the aggressiveness with which these franchises approach the negotiations. In Boston's case, already eliminated, the pressure to make a move could increase even more. The clock is ticking, and all signs indicate that Giannis Antetokounmpo has played his last game with the Milwaukee Bucks. Now begins one of the great battles in the NBA market, with half the league waiting to see the future of the “Greek Freak.”