Giannis Antetokounmpo remains at the center of ongoing trade chatter, with the New York Knicks once again surfacing as a potential destination. New York has been tied to the Milwaukee Bucks superstar for years, and with uncertainty surrounding his future, league insiders continue to view the Knicks as a team monitoring the situation closely.
"The Knicks believe in this team. … They are not showing that aggression to get Giannis right now, and I think that's because they like this team."
—@WindhorstESPN on the Knicks potentially going after Giannis pic.twitter.com/JJZcIUjWwo
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) February 2, 2026
With the NBA trade deadline drawing closer and the focus squarely on the Bucks superstar, insider Brian Windhorst offered insight into New York’s pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo. During an appearance on ESPN’s Get Up, Windhorst outlined how the Knicks have explored the possibility of bringing the two time MVP to Madison Square Garden.
“The Knicks believe in this team,” the NBA insider commented.
Are the Knicks staying put on the Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes?
Nov 28, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) and New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) battle for the ball during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
“They believed in this team last summer when Giannis was loosely available in those discussions. They didn’t make an aggressive offer at the time of those talks. If they want to win a bidding war now, I think it’s going to take a 3 or 4 team trade…. That is just not happening. They are not showing that aggression to get Giannis right now, and I think thats because they like this team.”
After reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years, the Knicks’ front office seems focused on keeping this year’s roster intact. With the Indiana Pacers, who eliminated New York last season, out of the playoffs and another full season of experience behind them, the Knicks aim to build on their deep postseason run.
Nov 28, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) dribbles as New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) defends during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
The Knicks present a well rounded team on both ends of the court. With talents like Jalen Brunson, Karl Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart, New York has the roster depth and skill to compete for a championship.
While reports suggest the Bucks are gauging interest from other teams, head coach Doc Rivers has stated that Antetokounmpo wants to stay in Milwaukee for the foreseeable future.