Tyrese Maxey
Getty
Giannis is interested in teaming up with Tyrese Maxey in Philly
Giannis Antetokounmpo has not been quiet about his desire to leave Milwaukee, and could have his sights set on on Philadelphia for his next NBA home.
According to The Stein Line’s Jake Fischer, Antetokounmpo is enamored with the idea of pairing with Sixers star Tyrese Maxey in Philly.
“League sources say Philadelphia, furthermore, has not contacted Milwaukee about a possible Antetokounmpo deal in the wake of a better-than-expected first half, but The Stein Line has learned that the prospect of teaming up with Tyrese Maxey — who, like Giannis, works with prominent NBA trainer Drew Hanlen — does have the 76ers on Antetokounmpo’s radar,” Stein wrote.
NBACentral
Giannis Antetokounmpo reportedly has the 76ers on his radar and likes Tyrese Maxey, per @TheSteinLine & @JakeLFischer
“League sources say Philadelphia, furthermore, has not contacted Milwaukee about a possible Antetokounmpo deal in the wake of a better-than-expected first half,
This is a massive report by Fischer for multiple reasons as he revealed that Antetokounmpo views the Sixers as an ideal landing spot for him in a potential trade, though Philadelphia has not contacted the Bucks about the star forward.
Philadelphia has performed like one of the best teams in the East at times this season, especially when Joel Embiid and Paul George share the court. Adding Giannis to the mix would almost assuredly make them to favorites to come out of the East.
Giannis Wants to Team-Up With Tyrese Maxey
Giannis Antetokounmpo
GettyGiannis eyeing the Sixers as potential trade destination
Not only does this report add another potential suitor in the Giannis sweepstakes, but it also speaks to how well-regarded Maxey is around the league.
Maxey, 25, is enjoying a career year in Philly.
He was selected as an All-Star starter for the first time and leads the NBA in minutes played.
The Sixers star is averaging 29.2 points, 6.8 assists, 4.2 rebounds and two steals per game.
“He’s done a lot of work, and he’s carried a big load, and he’s got a lot of games where he’s kind of out there on his own without Paul and Joel as well, and he’s handled that really great,” said Sixers head coach Nick Nurse.
Maxey’s evolution into a nightly 30-point scorer has been one of the best NBA storylines this season and has apparently caught the attention of Giannis.
Should Philly acquire the Bucks star, Maxey would represent the most dynamic guard Giannis has played with since Damian Lillard.
Plus, with All-Star center Joel Embiid regaining his MVP form, a Giannis trade would form one of the most talented triumverates in NBA history.
Why Sixers May Hold Off on Potential Giannis Trade
VJ Edgecombe
GettyVJ Edgecombe is a rising star in Philly
Philly fans are likely salivating at the thought of Giannis in Sixers threads, a blockbuster trade is easier said than done.
A potential move for Antetokounmpo would cost the Sixers Paul George for salary reasons. Plus, the team may also have to include rookie V.J. Edgecombe to satisfy the Bucks’ desire to get a young player in return for Giannis.
While a player of Giannis’ caliber is certainly worthy of such a package, the Sixers may want to allow Edgecombe time to blossom into a star of his own before moving him.
Edgecombe, who recently graced the SLAM magazine cover alongside his teammate Maxey, has flashed immense two-way potential this season.
The former Baylor standout leads all rookies in steals. He is fourth among first-year players in points this season.
Given his star potential, including Edgecombe could be a dealbreaker for Philly.