Giannis Antetokounmpo has the New York Knicks at the top of his preferred destinations if he becomes available from the Milwaukee Bucks. However, NBA insider Sam Amick’s latest report suggests the situation may be simpler than expected, noting that Giannis’s list is surprisingly short, starting with New York and ending with one unexpected alternative.
The situation becomes even more intriguing considering the unmatched leverage Giannis holds in any potential trade. Amick stressed how much control the star player has over where he could end up.
Sam Amick says the list for Giannis preferred destinations might not be that long
“The list might not be that long if you got New York in there. You got Miami. I think Miami is worth watching. That’s another one that checks a lot of boxes. It’s not a list of teams that I think… https://t.co/eH7Nu6fmOL pic.twitter.com/JyfHKMVfg9
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“Every team with Giannis interest does not matter if he doesn’t want to go there. He can opt out next summer. It’s a short enough timeline wise where Giannis Antetokounmpo is in control. If he doesn’t want to come to your team, you don’t want to do it. You’d have to give up too much then he’s going to bounce,” said the NBA insider.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s shortlist
Nov 17, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) walks on the court in the first quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
The insider emphasized that Giannis’ list of preferred destinations is short. “The list might not be that long if you got New York in there. You got Miami. I think Miami is worth watching. That’s another one that checks a lot of boxes. It’s not a list of teams that I think is going to hold up the market,” he added.
This two-team scenario has reshaped the NBA landscape, effectively removing dozens of franchises from serious contention regardless of the assets they hold.
Jan 12, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) pauses before the start of a game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
New York draws Giannis with a combination of factors, including a championship-ready roster led by Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, the high-profile platform of Madison Square Garden, and previous reports showing he singled out the Knicks as his top destination during offseason discussions.
The Miami Heat emerge as the most viable alternative if New York’s route proves too complicated. Amick noted that Miami “could be a great fit if the Knicks thing isn’t there,” highlighting the organization’s championship mindset and Pat Riley’s track record of aggressively chasing superstars. Combined with its warm climate and history of elevating star players, Miami stands out as a strong backup option for the Greek Freak.