With Giannis Antetokounmpo trade rumors swirling, some have questioned whether the Milwaukee Bucks star could land in San Antonio alongside Spurs star Victor Wembanyama.
NBA insider Jake Fischer provided intel into a possible Spurs trade for Antetokounmpo on Thursday.
Fischer noted that while San Antonio has “held numerous discussions over the years with Antetokounmpo’s longtime American agent,” the Spurs “might not be the automatic Giannis destination they are routinely painted to be,” as they previously were unwilling to part with their No. 2 overall pick that became Dylan Harper and are “equally against the idea of parting with Stephon Castle.”
The NBA offseason was filled with questions about whether Antetokounmpo would ask for a trade out of Milwaukee, but things fizzled out by the start of the regular season.
Speculation started up again this week, however, when the two-time MVP scrubbed most of the Bucks content from his social media. A day after that move, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Antetokounmpo and his agent “have started conversations” and are “discussing whether his best fit is staying or elsewhere.” Charania noted that “a resolution is expected in the coming weeks.”
While Bucks head coach Doc Rivers said Wednesday that Antetokounmpo has not requested a trade, multiple reports indicate otherwise. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported that Antetokounmpo has already asked to be traded.
Over the summer, during the initial trade speculation surrounding Antetokounmpo, the Spurs were seen as a candidate, but weren’t willing to part ways with the No. 2 pick because they were set on drafting Harper.
Both Harper and reigning Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle would help the Bucks avoid a complete rebuild, but it seems San Antonio views those young players as a part of its future.
Fischer also reported that the Los Angeles Lakers might not have the draft capital or young talent needed to acquire a player like Antetokounmpo. He noted that rising star Austin Reaves could “tempt” the Bucks, but he could be a risky pick-up considering he has a player option this offseason and is expected to draw a big market.
The New York Knicks were seemingly the most likely team to land Antetokounmpo over the offseason, but trade talks between New York and the Bucks reportedly broke down in August. That being said, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Knicks make another run at Antetokounmpo.