Knicks Will Be One Of Giannis Antetokounmpo's Desired Landing Spots If Bucks Part Ways With Superstar

While trade talks between the Knicks and Bucks regarding superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo didn't pick up enough speed this past offseason, it appears the two-time MVP is still very much interested in a blockbuster change of scenery.

The Knicks can at least express new optimism in their years-long pursuit, as ESPN insider Shams Charania reports the Bucks and Antetokounmpo have started to discuss his future with the team again, and whether it behooves them to part ways this season.

SNY NBA Insider Ian Begley reports "nothing has changed" on the Antetokounmpo front and there are still "big hurdles to clear."

What remains clear, however, is the Knicks should be atop a long list of teams seeking Antetokounmpo's talents if the Bucks determine trading him is the necessary solution in the coming weeks. 

Back in October, a source confirmed to Begley the Knicks and Bucks had cursory talks about an Antetokounmpo deal in August. Those negotiations didn't reach an advanced level, but Antetokounmpo was intrigued by winning a title with the Knicks, according to Begley.

Of course, the price for Antetokounmp wouldn't be cheap, and the Knicks aren't flush with draft capital for leverage in trade conversations. Several top picks were bundled in a trade with the Nets for Mikal Bridges two summers ago. A trade package for Antetokounmpo requires win-now players.

Antetokounmpo, who turns 31 this week, is under contract through the 2026-27 season and holds a player option for the 2027-28 campaign.

He's averaging a laudable 30.6 points (career-high), 10.7 rebounds, and 6.4 assists through 16 games -- quality production for a player carrying a hefty cap hit of $54.1 million.

The Knicks, operating in championship mode, currently own a 13-7 record, best for fourth place in the Eastern Conference standings.