The NBA offseason has so far come to a close. This week, actual basketball will be played, although it’s only preseason; the long-awaited 2025-26 season is upon us.
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This season promises to be one worth watching, with numerous storylines both on and off the court. One of the most intriguing storylines is the future of Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The future of Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee is certainly hanging in the balance. This past summer was filled with a ton of trade rumors regarding the nine-time All-Star. That came as no accident, as the Bucks do not have an equipped team to compete for a title, and it is clear that Antetokounmpo wants to compete for titles for the rest of his NBA career.
As things stand, his best chances appear to be away from Milwaukee. Dan Favale of Bleacher Report proposed this massive four-team trade idea that has Milwaukee shipping Antetokounmpo to the Atlanta Hawks.
In this scenario, the Bucks receive a massive haul for the two-time MVP.
Atlanta Hawks Receive: Giannis Antetokounmpo
Charlotte Hornets Receive: Onyeka Okongwu
Milwaukee Bucks Receive: Jalen Johnson, Josh Green, 2026 first-round pick (most favorable of Milwaukee and New Orleans, via Atlanta), 2027 first-round pick (least favorable from Milwaukee and New Orleans, via Atlanta; top-four protection), 2028 first-round pick (its own, via Portland), Atlanta’s 2029 first-round pick, Atlanta’s 2030 first-round pick (swap)
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: 2027 first-round pick (second-most favorable of Charlotte, Dallas and Miami, via Charlotte), Atlanta’s 2028 first-round pick (swap), 2029 first-round pick (least favorable from Cleveland, Minnesota and Utah, via Charlotte)
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The Bucks want to do all they can to give Antetokounmpo the best chance to win multiple titles; however, they have little to no assets to build a true contender.
The only true asset the Bucks have is their superstar, and while parting ways with him might be tough, it could be better for their long-term future.
The Hawks are coming off a stellar offseason, arguably having had the best one. If they can somehow land the former Defensive Player of the Year, Atlanta would immediately become a favorite in the Eastern Conference.
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