Just weeks before the start of the regular season, and it appears that Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo still hasn't decided on his future with the team. That gives the New York Knicks a sliver of hope in potentially bringing him to the Big Apple.
However, according to ESPN's Shams Charania, the Knicks already tried to make a blockbuster deal with the Bucks. Even so, they were seemingly unwilling to listen to offers.
To be fair to Milwaukee, the Knicks are short on assets. Thus, Milwaukee would have to be in love with players such as Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, or Karl-Anthony Towns for a deal to make sense for them. They obviously aren't, and that presents the Knicks with a challenge.
For them to become a serious landing spot for Giannis, they may have to part with some combination of those players. Either in a three-team trade with the Bucks or in a separate trade with another team to give them the assets needed to make a Giannis deal. If and when he demands to trade, perhaps as early as this season.
The Knicks could be the top landing spot for Giannis Antetokounmpo
A lot would have to go right for the Knicks to land Giannis, but there may be a path for that happening. Follow me for a minute. The Knicks could get off to a strong start and suddenly look like the favorites to win the Eastern Conference.
In that case, New York could be all the more attractive of a landing spot for Giannis. The Bucks might still be a top four team in the East, but it all depends on how Giannis feels about their chances.
The Knicks would still have to figure out a way to sweeten their offer to the Bucks. Though Giannis making clear that he wants to be traded and only wants to play for the Knicks could help them bridge the gap.
The Knicks want Giannis Antetokounmpo but may not need him
If they can somehow turn Towns and Bridges into Giannis, then that would be a huge get, with him still being one of the three best players in the league. It might also provide them a clear path to the NBA Finals.
Then again, New York might still end up being the best team in the East without Giannis. That would be a terrific consolation prize if the Bucks are able to keep Giannis happy enough to play out the year in Milwaukee.
The Knicks probably still hold out hope that a deal could eventually happen, but if one does, then it probably would still be months away. Stay tuned!