Ever since the Milwaukee Bucks got eliminated in the first round for the third straight season, this time at the hands of the Indiana Pacers, Giannis Antetokounmpo has been at the center of the NBA trade world. While he is yet to formerly demand a trade and the Bucks added new talent to their roster, a disappointing start to the season might see him leave the only NBA team he has ever played for.
According to a panel of NBA experts at ESPN, the Bucks are the most likely team to “take a tumble” this season, and the Greek Freak is the second most likely player to demand a trade, second only to Zion Williamson.
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Depending on who or what the San Antonio Spurs are willing to give up to pair Victor Wembanyama with Antetokounmpo, they could have the best shot to add him. After all, they have plenty of draft capital and young talent, and have been linked to Giannis since before the postseason even started.
However, the very same panel seems to think the Spurs are not interested in a blockbuster move, and their track record this summer suggests the same.
The Warriors, Lakers, Cavaliers, Pelicans, 76ers, and Grizzlies, according to ESPN, are the six teams most likely to make a splashy move this summer. The Spurs, despite their possible ammunition, have been excluded.
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This summer, the Spurs bolstered their depth with Carter Bryant, Kelly Olynyk, and Luke Kornet, and did not make a trade, suggesting they like their core. On top of that, they drafted Dylan Harper, who has star potential.
While the Spurs are in a position to tinker with their roster, their generally slow and methodical approach suggests that they will wait until next offseason, and by then, Giannis’ long-term standing with the Bucks should be more clear.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 25, 2025, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.