Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future with the Milwaukee Bucks has never been as uncertain as it was during February’s trade deadline, with several teams, including the Golden State Warriors, vying for the two-time MVP’s services. However, none of them could meet Milwaukee’s enormous trade demands.
The Warriors had a serious interest in acquiring Antetokounmpo before adding Kristaps Porzingis from the Atlanta Hawks, and the team had even informed franchise icon Draymond Green about the possibility of trading him if a deal for the Bucks star materialized.
However, they faced stiff competition not only from the Minnesota Timberwolves, Los Angeles Lakers, and New York Knicks, but also from Milwaukee’s sky-high demands.
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According to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, the Bucks’ asking price for Antetokounmpo ahead of the trade deadline was “enormous,” and even a massive offer from Golden State failed to gain traction.
"The Golden State Warriors offer included four unprotected first-round picks in pursuit of Antetokounmpo, sources said, but never seemed to gain much momentum on a deal," Shelburne added.
One team executive told Shelburne that the Bucks were seeking “all our draft picks and good young players,” with Milwaukee reportedly interested in younger building blocks, such as VJ Edgecombe and Evan Mobley.
While Milwaukee ultimately declined to accept the Warriors’ offer or move Antetokounmpo elsewhere, a split appears increasingly possible this offseason. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the Bucks want to shut Antetokounmpo down for the remainder of the season as their chances of securing a play-in spot continue to fade. However, he has reportedly refused and wants to keep playing.
Bucks owner Wes Edens further clarified the situation, stating that Antetokounmpo will either be traded or extended this offseason. He is set to enter the final year of a three-year, $175 million deal and is eligible for a four-year, $275 million extension beginning October 1.
Golden State would likely once again be among the frontrunners if Antetokounmpo becomes available, although it remains unclear whether they can improve upon their previous offer of four first-round picks plus a player like Green or Porzingis.
