A new report may have just put to rest the idea of the New York Knicks or Miami Heat making a trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo this season.
Now, with Trae Young officially off the trade market following a Wednesday deal that sent the Atlanta Hawks star to the Washington Wizards, the rumor mill is likely to shift back to Milwaukee Bucks legend Antetokounmpo.
With Milwaukee off to a disappointing 16-21 start, it seems that a deal sending the team great out of town is as likely as ever. For months, the Knicks have been viewed as a top contender for his services since the Greek star reportedly enjoys life in New York City. However, the Heat are also seen as a potential landing spot as well because they have better assets to offer in a deal, and who wouldn’t be open to living in South Beach?
Giannis Antetokounmpo stats: 23 games, 29.5 points, 10.0 rebounds, 5.5 assists
However, the big hold up in a deal is that the Bucks don’t want to move, arguably, the greatest player in franchise history. All indications suggest that they will not consider taking offers unless Antetokounmpo specifically requests to be traded. Well, according to the two-time NBA MVP, that is never going to happen.
“There will never be a chance, and there will never be a moment that I will come out and say ‘I want a trade,’” Antetokounmpo told The Athletic on Wednesday night. “That’s not … in … my … nature. OK?”
With the NY Knicks hitting a bump in the road this month, it has fueled new speculation that they could begin serious conversations about a potential trade. Furthermore, with the Heat near the back of the Eastern Conference playoff pecking order, a deal for the nine-time All-Star would certainly turn them into a legitimate Finals contender this spring.
However, Antetokounmpo’s comments seem to put to rest the idea of a deal happening this season. Meaning both organizations will need to pivot to different trade ideas if they want to improve the roster with external options before next month’s trade deadline.
