NBA · 5 hours ago

NBA Trade Deadline 2026: 5 Blockbuster Destinations for Giannis

Paul Connor

Host · Writer

Changing the NBA Hierarchy: Where Does Giannis Fit Best?
The End of an Era: Milwaukee Officially Listening to Giannis Offers
The Giannis Antetokounmpo era in Milwaukee appears to be nearing its end.

After months of speculation and a disastrous 18-28 record, the Milwaukee Bucks have officially signaled that they are listening to offers for the two-time MVP.

With the February 5 trade deadline just days away, the news has thrown the NBA landscape into chaos. Executives are scrambling, title windows are being re-evaluated, and the price for the "Greek Freak" is set to reshape the league for the next decade. As the bidding war begins, here are five realistic trade destinations in what would arguably be the biggest deal in NBA history.
1. Golden State Warriors
Unsurprisingly, the Warriors have emerged as Antetokounmpo's most aggressive suitor, desperate to maximize Stephen Curry's final years. Reports indicate that Golden State is willing to offer a package centered on Jonathan Kuminga, multiple future first-round picks (2027, 2029, 2031), and Jimmy Butler (out for the season with an ACL tear) as salary filler. While Giannis would need to waive his trade kicker, the chance to join forces with Curry as the Dubs try to squeeze out one more title makes this the most discussed scenario right now.
2. Miami Heat
The Heat are arguably the most logical cultural fit and have reportedly expressed a "vibe of confidence" about getting a deal done before the deadline. Miami's potential offer is headlined by Tyler Herro (despite his current rib injury) and Kel'el Ware, along with draft capital. With the Bucks seeking young blue-chip talent to reset their roster, the 21-year-old Ware offers a specific long-term solution at center that Milwaukee covets.
3. New York Knicks
New York has been stockpiling assets for a moment exactly like this. The Knicks have been aggressively monitoring Giannis for years, and reports suggest they are preparing an "aggressive offer." New York can offer a massive volume of draft picks that rivals almost any other contender, plus flexible salary matching. If Giannis prefers a big market and a roster that is arguably more "win-now" than the current Warriors configuration, the Knicks are the top destination.
4. Oklahoma City Thunder
While they are often quieter in the rumor mill, the Thunder possess the "surplus of draft picks" Milwaukee reportedly demands. OKC controls a staggering 13 first-round picks over the next few years and could outbid any other team without gutting their current roster. If the Bucks decide to prioritize a complete rebuild with a historic haul of draft assets over immediate player returns, the Thunder are the only team capable of meeting that price.
5. Minnesota Timberwolves
Minnesota has surprisingly emerged as a "top suitor" in reports. While the financial logistics would be complicated given their payroll, the prospect of pairing Anthony Edwards with Antetokounmpo would create the league's most terrifying athletic duo. The Timberwolves would likely have to get creative with a third team to make the salaries work, but their inclusion in serious talks suggests they're willing to swing for the fences.
Where is the Smart Money Going? Kalshi’s Giannis Trade Odds
While rumors swirl through traditional media, prediction markets offer a cold, hard look at where "smart money" is actually being placed. According to the latest Kalshi data, the market still leans toward stability, but the gap for a potential blockbuster is narrowing. Currently, the market reflects a high probability that the superstar remains in Milwaukee, though the New York Knicks and Golden State Warriors are locked in a dead heat as the most likely suitors to pull off a heist.

Kalshi Trade Market Odds (as of Jan. 30):
- Stays with Milwaukee or Retires: 50% (▲ 4) | Yes: 51¢ | No: 50¢
- Golden State Warriors: 16% (▼ 1) | Yes: 16¢ | No: 85¢
- New York Knicks: 13% (▼ 1) | Yes: 14¢ | No: 87¢
- Miami Heat: 12% (▼ 1) | Yes: 12¢ | No: 89¢
- Philadelphia 76ers: 4% (▲ 3) | Yes: 3¢ | No: 98¢
- Minnesota Timberwolves: 3% (▼ 2) | Yes: 3¢ | No: 98¢
Changing the NBA Hierarchy: Where Does Giannis Fit Best?
The End of an Era: Milwaukee Officially Listening to Giannis Offers
The Giannis Antetokounmpo era in Milwaukee appears to be nearing its end.

After months of speculation and a disastrous 18-28 record, the Milwaukee Bucks have officially signaled that they are listening to offers for the two-time MVP.

With the February 5 trade deadline just days away, the news has thrown the NBA landscape into chaos. Executives are scrambling, title windows are being re-evaluated, and the price for the "Greek Freak" is set to reshape the league for the next decade. As the bidding war begins, here are five realistic trade destinations in what would arguably be the biggest deal in NBA history.