NBA Rumors: The crazy transfer that would end with Giannis Antetokounmpo in OKC

Only one game of the Western Conference Finals has been played —considered by many as the “real” NBA Finals this season—, but the impact has already been huge. Victor Wembanyama put on a tremendous performance in the San Antonio Spurs' 122-115 double-overtime victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, with 41 points and 24 rebounds.

While the French center shined, Chet Holmgren, his direct rival in the paint, could only contribute eight points and eight rebounds. The performance gap between them has sparked intense debate about the Thunder's future if they miss out on the Finals. One of those making the most noise is Stephen A. Smith. The analyst believes Oklahoma City should consider a big move this summer if they fall to San Antonio.

His suggestion involves attempting to sign Giannis Antetokounmpo. According to Smith's proposal, the Thunder would send Chet Holmgren to Milwaukee, along with either Ajay Mitchell, Cason Wallace, or Isaiah Joe, along with two first-round and two second-round draft picks. In return, Oklahoma City would receive the two-time MVP.

Smith argued that the Thunder have enough leeway to undertake such a significant operation thanks to the 13 first-round picks they have until 2032. "If there's a team that can afford to part ways with two rotation players, it's Oklahoma City," he noted. He also added that if San Antonio eliminates the Thunder while Holmgren is clearly outmatched by Wembanyama, the franchise should consider if they need to bolster their roster to compete with the Spurs in the future.

The Physical Risk of Betting on Giannis

However, the operation would not be without risks. Antetokounmpo comes off a season marred by physical issues, in which he only played 36 games. Additionally, he is seven years older than Holmgren. There is even at least one report stating that the Greek player's knees are "really, really bad," turning the potential trade into a high-risk, high-reward gamble.

Nevertheless, Holmgren also does not offer absolute guarantees in terms of physical condition. Two of his four NBA seasons have been significantly impacted by injuries, despite being only 24 years old. The difference is that Giannis already knows what it's like to lead a championship team, something that could be decisive for a Thunder team aiming to re-conquer the NBA.

The possibility of such a significant trade reflects the scenario that could unfold this summer in the NBA. Oklahoma City would have to decide whether to bet on developing their young core or to accelerate their project with an immediate addition like Antetokounmpo. Because if the Thunder want to keep up with Wembanyama's Spurs and aim for the title sooner, they might need a game-changing move of this magnitude.