Jalen Brunson Privilege Denied to 3 Knicks Teammates While Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Faces Key Roadblock

The New York Knicks’ pursuit of Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo was a defining storyline of the NBA offseason. “Now if in six or seven months, I change my mind, I think that’s human, too,” Antetokounmpo stated, confirming his current commitment to the Bucks comes with a clear timeline for reevaluation. This comment directly followed an ESPN report that named the Knicks as his only preferred trade destination.

Despite the intriguing possibility, trade discussions between the Knicks and Bucks in August never gained real momentum. Because the Knicks would have to offer actual players rather than draft assets. A result of acquiring Mikal Bridges for 4 years for $150M, which also means he can’t be traded for 6 months.

Amid all the trade speculation, one Knicks player has been declared completely safe. According to a report from Sam Amick, point guard Jalen Brunson is considered “untouchable” in any trade talks with the Bucks for Giannis Antetokounmpo. The same report identified three of Brunson’s teammates who do not share his protected status. It named Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, and Mitchell Robinson as the most likely players to be discussed in a potential trade.

(This is a building story…)