Giannis Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP and one of the NBA's most dominant forces, has become a focal point in offseason trade discussions following the Milwaukee Bucks' early playoff exit. Despite another stellar season where Antetokounmpo averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game with a 60.1% field goal percentage, the Bucks were eliminated in the first round by the Indiana Pacers, marking their third consecutive early postseason departure.
This pattern of playoff disappointments has intensified speculation about Antetokounmpo's future in Milwaukee. ESPN's Brian Windhorst recently highlighted on the Hoop Collective podcast that the Toronto Raptors are a team are "starting to make noise within the league about looking for a big fish," suggesting the 2019 NBA champions are positioning themselves to acquire a superstar talent.
Adding to the intrigue, Doug Smith of the Toronto Star reported that there is "mutual interest" between Antetokounmpo and the Raptors.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Toronto Raptors reportedly have mutual interest, per @TorontoStar
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 2, 2025
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Smith noted that Toronto is "uniquely placed to make an attractive offer that won’t ruin their franchise or roster," indicating that the Raptors have the assets and flexibility to pursue such a high-profile acquisition.
As these reports have been circulating in recent days, both from Windhorst and Smith, Antetokounmpo made a post to his Instagram story. The 2021 Finals MVP posted a selfie with two laughing emojis.
If is unclear what exactly Antetokounmpo meant with this post, but he has remained active on social media amid the trade buzz surrounding him.
A potential trade for Antetokounmpo would have significant implications for both franchises. For the Bucks, it could signal the end of an era and the beginning of a rebuild, while the Raptors would instantly elevate to contender status in the Eastern Conference.
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