Trail Blazers emerge as surprising contender in Giannis Antetokounmpo trade saga 1 Jan 28, 2025; Portland, Oregon, USA; Milwaukee Bucks power forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) shoots the ball against Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton (2) during the second half at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images

Trail Blazers emerge as surprising contender in Giannis Antetokounmpo trade saga

Originally posted on WI Sports Heroics | By Nathan Yasis | Last updated Feb 3, 2026 11:34 AM ET

Giannis Antetokounmpo, sidelined by injury, and the Milwaukee Bucks are navigating a tough period, sitting at 18-29 with a four-game losing streak. The team’s struggles and Giannis dissatisfaction have prompted management to actively consider trade offers for the star, with the Portland Trail Blazers emerging as an unexpected potential destination.

The Portland Trail Blazers have formally shown interest in acquiring the two-time MVP, seeing an opportunity to act as a facilitator given their control of the Bucks’ draft picks in 2028, 2029, and 2030.

Sports Illustrated’s Jeremy Brener outlined a potential trade that could work well for both sides, sending Giannis Antetokounmpo and Thanasis Antetokounmpo to the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for Jerami Grant, Scoot Henderson, Matisse Thybulle, Portland’s 2027 first-round pick, Orlando’s 2028 first-round pick, and 2028 and 2030 pick swaps.

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s fit with the Trail Blazers

Although Antetokounmpo has not indicated the Blazers as a preferred destination, the team features two of his former Bucks teammates, Jrue Holiday and Damian Lillard , giving him the chance to star alongside them and first-time All-Star forward Deni Avdija.

The front office is expected to start sorting through the intel and talks they’ve collected, giving them a clearer sense of their options for this summer. The Trail Blazers have established itself as a serious contender for Giannis, but several challenges remain that could complicate their pursuit.

Trail Blazers emerge as surprising contender in Giannis Antetokounmpo trade saga 2 Jan 28, 2025; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers small forward Deni Avdija (8) shoots the ball against Milwaukee Bucks power forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) during the first half at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images

It’s unclear whether the Blazers can offer the most for Antetokounmpo, but they could emerge as a surprising contender. Currently 10th in the Western Conference and holding the final play-in spot, Portland mirrors the Bucks’ position in the East, yet the Blazers seem to have the more promising long-term outlook.

The Bucks have until Thursday at 2 pm ET to move Antetokounmpo. If he stays in Milwaukee, negotiations for a new contract will likely pick up again in the offseason.

This article first appeared on WI Sports Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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