Bucks Star Reportedly Open-Minded to Trade as Raptors Eye ‘Unique Opportunities’

The Toronto Raptors are poised to explore every option this summer as Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo weighs his future in Milwaukee.

Jan 6, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) controls the ball as Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes (4) defends during the third quarter at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images | Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

Giannis Antetokounmpo might finally be available.

The Milwaukee Bucks superstar is reportedly “open-minded about exploring whether his best long-term fit is remaining in Milwaukee or playing elsewhere,” according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. After another disappointing first-round playoff exit, there’s speculation that Antetokounmpo could consider a change of scenery this offseason.

For the Toronto Raptors, this is the opportunity they’ve been eyeing since the 2013 NBA Draft when they attempted to acquire a first-round pick to select Antetokounmpo. Since then, the Raptors have maintained roster flexibility in hopes of landing a superstar like the two-time MVP.

Could this finally be the year it happens?

If Antetokounmpo explores his options, the Raptors are expected to at least show some interest. They’ve previously explored ways to acquire Antetokounmpo and have been involved in multiple superstar trade discussions in recent years.

“I can guarantee you there are many unique opportunities that are going to come up in July and we have to look at all of them,” Raptors president Masai Ujiri said during his season-ending media availability. “That’s our job here.”

A potential trade package for Antetokounmpo would likely centre around Scottie Barnes and would need to include RJ Barrett, Jakob Poeltl, or Gradey Dick and Ochai Agbaji, along with multiple first-round picks. The Raptors have their full slate of first-round picks available, including this year’s No. 7 pick in the draft lottery.

However, the challenge for Toronto is maintaining a competitive roster post-trade. If the Raptors move Barnes and at least one other key player, they risk leaving Antetokounmpo on a team that might not be strong enough to contend next season.

Meanwhile, Houston and San Antonio are also expected to enter the bidding, potentially offering more enticing packages than Toronto can muster.

Antetokounmpo is set to begin a three-year, $175 million contract extension next season including a player-option for 2027-28.