The idea of watching Giannis Antetokounmpo in a jersey other than the Milwaukee Bucks would feel surreal. Yet with trade rumors surrounding him resurfacing, that scenario is increasingly plausible.
Rumors continue to swirl that Antetokounmpo is considering a move to another team as Milwaukee struggles through a mediocre season impacted by injuries. Among the teams generating buzz in trade discussions are the San Antonio Spurs, marking yet another instance of the star being linked to San Antonio despite Victor Wembanyama already serving as the franchise cornerstone.
Zach Kram of ESPN outlined a Spurs trade scenario for Antetokounmpo that would move a significant portion of their current assets.
Pairing Victor Wembanyama with an established superstar would immediately raise San Antonio’s ceiling and position the team as a consistent title contender.
The Spurs trade package for Giannis Antetokounmpo
Jan 4, 2024; San Antonio, Texas, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) dunks over San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) during the first half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports
In the proposed trade, the San Antonio Spurs would acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo, while the Milwaukee Bucks would receive Stephon Castle, Harrison Barnes, Kelly Olynyk, Jordan McLaughlin, a 2027 first-round pick via the Hawks, a 2029 first-round pick, and a 2032 first-round pick.
Letting go of Stephon Castle will not be simple. The 21-year-old Rookie of the Year is just beginning to show his potential, but the chance to acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo, still at the peak of his career, is nearly impossible to pass up. The Spurs face a classic choice between immediate contention and long-term development. To land a game-changing star like “The Greek Freak,” they would have to give up a significant asset, and Castle represents their most valuable piece.
Jan 4, 2024; San Antonio, Texas, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) loses control of the ball while driving to the basket against San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) during the first half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports
“Still, the potential to team up two MVP candidates in the frontcourt might be too great for the Spurs to resist. After all, the Spurs are 15-6 with Fox, Castle, Harper and Wembanyama all missing time. And the Giannis-Wemby pairing could dominate for the next several seasons,” Kram wrote.
By bringing in De’Aaron Fox, San Antonio has shown they are committed to contending with Wembanyama. Although landing Antetokounmpo would require a significant investment, his presence would fast-track their championship window and instantly elevate the Spurs into serious Western Conference title contention.
Jan 8, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) drives for the basket against San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) during the third quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
A Giannis Antetokounmpo and Victor Wembanyama pairing would pose a major threat across the league on both ends of the floor, likely dominating well into the decade. Both are among the most unique talents the NBA has ever produced, and if their on-court chemistry approaches what the numbers suggest, other teams may have to significantly increase their trade offers to Milwaukee.