Three unexpected teams that could land Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo

The Milwaukee Bucks may finally be forced to trade their franchise star, Giannis Antetokounmpo. After years of success and an NBA title, the Bucks look like a play-in team at best, if not out of the playoffs altogether. 

Antetokounmpo has made it known that he's unsure about his future with the organization, and he's having discussions with the team about it. Reports about the former NBA champion wanting out this summer and trying to force a trade to the New York Knicks ran rampant, and many believe it's only "when," not "if," the Bucks move on from him. 

Yet, where would he end up? Some outlets believe the Atlanta Hawks, Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs and Golden State Warriors make the most sense. That may be the case, but there are a few dark horses that should also be considered.

Los Angeles Lakers (After Dec. 15)

Lakers get: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Gary Harris, Taurean Prince, Amir Coffey

Bucks get: Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, Jake LaRavia, Dalton Knecht, 2026 first-round swap, 2028 first-round swap, 2032 first-rounder, 2032 second-rounder

Why this works: If the market isn't hot for Antetokounmpo, or if the Bucks star really wants to go to the Lakers, this trade makes sense. The Bucks would get three first-round picks, a second and some good young talent in Knecht and LaRavia, plus possible trade pieces later on.

For Antetokounmpo, the Lakers are probably the best bet for him to win another title now. He'd play with the best creator in the NBA in Luka Doncic and one of the better scorers in Austin Reaves. Not to mention the all-around talents of LeBron James. That foursome could be the most fluid group in the NBA with the way their skills fit with one another.

Phoenix Suns

Suns get: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Gary Harris, Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Amir Coffey

Bucks get: Jalen Green, Royce O'Neale, Khaman Maluach, Nick Richards, PHX 2026 first-rounder (WAS swap), 2027 first-rounder (via UTA, CLE, MIN), 2028 first-rounder (BKN, NYK, WAS swap), 2030 first-rounder (2030 swap), 2026 second-rounder (via OKC/DAL/PHL), PHX 2029 second-rounder, 2032 second-rounder (MIN swap)

Why this works: The Bucks get a young stud in Green, plus four more picks and two swaps to help jump-start a rebuild that should get them back to their winning ways sooner rather than later.

As for the Bucks superstar, the 2025-26 Suns team is probably the closest squad Antetokounmpo could have to his title-winning team in Milwaukee. We know Antetokounmpo can thrive on teams that prioritize perimeter shooting, so the Suns make total sense for Antetokounmpo's skill set and prior paths to success.

Miami Heat

Heat get: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Gary Harris, Taurean Prince, Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Cole Anthony

Bucks get: Andrew Wiggins, Terry Rozier, Nikola Jovic, Kel'el Ware, Kasparas Jakucionis, Heat's 2030 first-rounder, Heat's 2032 first-rounder, 2031 first-round swap with Heat, BKN's 2026 second-rounder, Heat's 2026 second-rounder, NYK/OKC/SAS second-rounder

Why this works: Five draft picks, a swap and three young former first-round picks help set the Bucks up for success better than any other team. None of these players is as good as the Suns' Green is now, but if they all develop, it could launch the Bucks back into contention faster than any other offer.

As for the Heat, Antetokounmpo would fit in well scheme-wise. He'd be next to a defensive dynamo in Bam Adebayo, giving them a dynamic no one could really match defensively. Not to mention that the former MVP would be playing with guys like Tyler Herro, who can shoot as well as anyone. Add in the desirable landing spot, the club's history with getting to and winning NBA Finals and stellar coach in Erik Spoelstra, it could be the one that gives Antetokounmpo his best shot at more than one title.