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Jamal Collier
Multiple Authors
As the NBA trade deadline approaches in three days, discussions involving Giannis Antetokounmpo are heating up. The Milwaukee Bucks have begun making counteroffers to teams eager to finalize a deal for the two-time MVP, according to sources cited by ESPN’s Shams Charania on Monday.
Previously hesitant about trading Antetokounmpo throughout his Milwaukee tenure, the Bucks are now actively exploring options with several teams for a potentially game-changing trade.
The Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors, and New York Knicks are among the front-runners eager to finalize a trade before the deadline, sources have reported to ESPN.
The Bucks (18-29) are on a five-game losing streak following their blowout loss to the Boston Celtics on Sunday, placing them 12th in the Eastern Conference. In exchange for their franchise player, Milwaukee is looking for a promising young talent and/or a bundle of draft picks, according to ESPN sources.
For several months, Antetokounmpo has conveyed to the Bucks that he feels it might be time to move on after over 12 years together, as sources have indicated to ESPN.
This season, he has played 30 games, averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists with an impressive 64% shooting percentage. Currently, he is sidelined due to a right calf injury, which he estimates could keep him out for four to six weeks. The Bucks have not provided an official timeline for his return.
Milwaukee is set to commence a three-game homestand this week, facing off against Chicago and New Orleans before the looming 3 p.m. ET deadline on Thursday.
