The Golden State Warriors are expected to pursue Giannis Antetokounmpo again this offseason, but a recent report suggests the franchise remains an unlikely favorite to land the Milwaukee Bucks superstar despite continued interest.
According to ClutchPoints NBA insider Brett Siegel, Golden State was heavily involved in trade discussions with the Milwaukee Bucks before the February trade deadline. Milwaukee reportedly showed interest in the Warriors’ draft assets, though several key factors continue to limit Golden State’s leverage in potential negotiations.
“Of course, the name at the top of the list when it comes to a potential massive offseason move is Giannis,” Siegel wrote.
“Golden State very much involved in trade conversations with the Bucks before the trade deadline in February, with Milwaukee taking a strong interest in the multiple draft picks being offered.”
The Warriors are projected to hold the No. 11 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, a selection that could increase the value of their trade package alongside future first-round picks. However, Siegel noted that Golden State lacks the type of young centerpiece Milwaukee is reportedly seeking in any potential Antetokounmpo deal.
“While the Warriors' future draft assets are clearly more appealing than those other teams, like the Miami Heat, can offer for Giannis, the fact of the matter is that Golden State lacks leverage in trade talks,” Siegel wrote.
“Neither Green nor Butler would hold much value to a team like the Bucks if they were to trade Antetokounmpo, and the Warriors don't have a young, ‘blue-chip prospect’ Milwaukee is said to want.”
Warriors face uphill battle in Giannis Antetokounmpo pursuit despite trade interest
Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) shoots the ball against Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) during the second quarter at Chase Center
Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
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The report identified Brandin Podziemski as Golden State’s top young asset but added that some rival evaluators believe he may have already reached his ceiling as a player. Because of that, Siegel suggested the organization could ultimately prioritize keeping the No. 11 selection and continuing to build through the draft.
“That is why holding onto the 11th pick may be in the best interest of this organization's future, as there are several high-level prospects who could immediately create a strong foundation for Golden State,” Siegel wrote.
“After all, the Warriors have always been at their best when trusting the scouting department in the draft.”
Despite the obstacles, Antetokounmpo reportedly remains Golden State’s top trade target entering the summer. The organization is expected to make another push before the NBA Draft, though it remains unclear whether a package would need to include veterans such as Draymond Green or Jimmy Butler for salary-matching purposes.
Siegel ultimately concluded that Golden State is unlikely to emerge as the winner of the Antetokounmpo sweepstakes.
With uncertainty continuing to surround Milwaukee’s long-term direction, the two-time MVP is expected to remain at the center of offseason speculation across the league.
The Golden State Warriors are expected to pursue Giannis Antetokounmpo again this offseason, but a recent report suggests the franchise remains an unlikely favorite to land the Milwaukee Bucks superstar despite continued interest. According to ClutchPoints NBA insider Brett Siegel, Golden State was heavily involved in trade discussions with the Milwaukee Bucks before the February trade deadline.