Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Deadline Drama: Warriors Timberwolves Heat

Merlin sees Milwaukee hoisting Giannis into the trade wind. ESPN’s Shams Charania reports the Bucks are “engaged” with offers from Golden State, Minnesota and Miami and are “making counteroffers” as they hunt for “a young, bluechip talent and/or a surplus of draft picks.” Golden State’s pitch is “pick heavy,” Minnesota’s is “more of a player-centric” package, and Miami sits “somewhere in the middle.” The clock is loud: Milwaukee sits four games out of the play-in and Giannis has one season left before a 2027-28 player option, which would sap the Bucks of leverage if they hold him. Merlin notes the trade stakes are binary. Keep Giannis and Milwaukee risks adding wins that cost a top-five pick while still missing the postseason. Trade him and contenders like Golden State or Miami instantly reshape the West, while Minnesota pairing Giannis with Anthony Edwards could finally clear a Finals hurdle. The Bucks must weigh immediate impact against long-term currency.