Milwaukee Bucks consider Giannis Antetokounmpo trade before NBA draft

Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo could be traded before the upcoming NBA draft if he remains uncommitted to a new $275m contract extension.

The two-time NBA Most Valuable Player has two years remaining on his current deal and becomes eligible to sign a lucrative four-year extension on 1 October.

However, recent changes to the collective bargaining agreement have accelerated extension timelines across the league.

Bucks prepare for potential exit

Bucks co-owner Jimmy Haslam has admitted the franchise must secure substantial assets if their talisman decides to play elsewhere.

“I just think before the draft is a natural time,” Haslam said regarding a potential transfer.

The Greek international holds a $62.8m player option for the 2026-27 season.

If he declines to verbally commit to remaining in Wisconsin, the team is expected to explore the trade market.

“If Giannis does play somewhere else, we’ve got to have a lot of assets,” Haslam added.

A summer of lucrative deals

More than 100 players are eligible for extensions in the coming months.

Fellow superstars Stephen Curry, Nikola Jokic and Donovan Mitchell are among those negotiating their long-term futures.

The eight-time All-Star insists he will assess his options carefully before making a final commitment.

“I haven’t been offered an extension, so, if that is on the table, then I will try to make the best decision for me and my family,” he stated.

Under current regulations, an average of 31 players per season have agreed early extensions to secure guaranteed money.