NBA Teams Reportedly to 'Ramp Up Due Diligence' on Giannis Trade During Combine Week
Teams interested in Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo are expected to "ramp up due diligence" regarding a potential trade during the NBA scouting combine this week, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.
According to Charania, "Antetokounmpo is open-minded about exploring whether his best long-term fit is remaining in Milwaukee or playing elsewhere."
The combine started last Sunday and runs through Sunday, May 18 at Chicago's Wintrust Arena.
Antetokounmpo, who is signed for at least two more years on his current contract with a player option for 2027-28, has seen the Bucks suffer three consecutive first-round exits since 2023.
When asked immediately after the Bucks' Game 5 elimination loss to the Pacers this spring if he believed he could win a second championship in Milwaukee, Antetokounmpo couldn't give a definitive answer.
That is especially called into question by the uncertain available of Damian Lillard next season. The former Portland Trail Blazers star, acquired in 2023 in order to for a star duo with Antetokounmpo, returned during the postseason from deep vein thrombosis in his right calf but played just three games before tearing his left Achilles tendon.
The Bucks will likely work to feel out whether Antetokounmpo would sign an extension in Milwaukee when next eligible in 2026. Antetokounmpo's representatives are expected to meet with the Bucks this offseason "to discuss the future," according to Charania.
If Antetokounmpo seeks a move or the Bucks decide he won't sign an extension with the franchise, his trade suitors would be limited to teams that have the draft capital and young talent necessary to facilitate a deal for a perennial NBA MVP candidate.
One of those teams is the Houston Rockets, who are "intrigued" by a potential trade for Antetokounmpo, The Athletic's Kelly Iko and Sam Amick reported Monday.
Representatives from all 30 NBA teams will be in Chicago for the combine, Charania noted. The Rockets likely won't be the only team feeling out the possibility of trading for the 30-year-old superstar this week.
