Anonymous executives see Giannis Antetokounmpo linking with 2x Finals MVP in West: Report
Amid the Milwaukee Bucks' poor start to the season, trade speculation surrounding superstar forward Giannis Antetokounmpo is ramping up. According to multiple anonymous NBA executives, the two-time MVP could head to the Western Conference and team up with LA Clippers superstar forward Kawhi Leonard.
Antetokounmpo has gotten off to a dominant start to Year 12 of his career. Through six outings, he is averaging 31.0 points, 12.3 rebounds and 6.3 assists per game, shooting 63.3%.
However, Milwaukee has started 1-6, including Monday's 116-114 road loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers with Antetokounmpo sidelined due to a hip injury. A lack of depth and perimeter defense has plagued the Bucks, and they don't have many trade assets. Thus, the organization could decide to move on from Antetokounmpo and retool for the future.
According to a West executive who spoke with NJ Advance Media on Sunday, the LA Clippers and Miami Heat are Antetokounmpo's only viable trade destinations.
"The only places I can see him going are Miami or LA," the executive said.
Another West executive who spoke with NJ Advance Media also named the Heat and Clippers as teams "linked to" Antetokounmpo. However, they added the Houston Rockets and Brooklyn Nets as potential suitors.
Miami has long been connected to Antetokounmpo, and his two-way playstyle would likely be a welcome addition to the franchise's renowned Heat culture. Meanwhile, he could have another opportunity to contend in the Eastern Conference.
However, joining the Clippers would probably mark a seismic shift for the eight-time All-Star. He would likely join forces with an injury-plagued Leonard, who has yet to suit up this season due to right knee inflammation. The two-time NBA Finals MVP has undergone three surgeries on that knee since the 2021 playoffs, putting his future in question.
Amid Leonard's absence, LA has started 3-4, relying heavily on veteran star guard James Harden. Thus, it's unclear if a move to the Clippers in the crowded West would mark an upgrade for Antetokounmpo.
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Top NBA executive says Giannis Antetokounmpo could be dealt by trade deadline
Milwaukee still has plenty of time to turn around its season. Nevertheless, a "top executive" told CBS Sports on Thursday that Giannis Antetokounmpo could be dealt by the trade deadline.
"I wouldn't be surprised if it happened by the trade deadline," the executive said.
The 2025 NBA trade deadline is scheduled for Feb. 6. However, Antetokounmpo is locked under contract until the end of the 2026-27 season, with a player option for the 2027-28 campaign. So, the Bucks likely won't be in a rush to trade him unless they receive an undeniable offer.
Also Read: NBA insider reports on $7.5B franchise's chances of landing Giannis Antetokounmpo