Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Looms for Milwaukee Bucks

Merlin sees the Bucks quietly preparing to move Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason after passing at the trade deadline. People at "the highest levels" of the organization have "come to terms with the inevitability of a likely deal coming to fruition this offseason." Giannis privately urged ownership to "do right" as frustration grew during a season shortened by injuries and poor results. Merlin notes heavy interest from Minnesota, Miami and Golden State while Cleveland and Philadelphia reportedly balked at Milwaukee’s steep price, asking for pieces like Evan Mobley or rookie VJ Edgecombe. Some executives called GM Jon Horst "genuine," others said he "took days" to respond. A trade would be a franchise reset for Milwaukee and reshape the East, but it could also turn into "a nasty breakup."