Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future in Milwaukee has been the subject of speculation for years and the New York Knicks are reportedly still keeping tabs, even after the Bucks superstar publicly reaffirmed his loyalty.
Over the past season, Antetokounmpo’s name has been tied to multiple trade scenarios, with teams like the Brooklyn Nets and Miami Heat surfacing in the rumor mill. But according to The Athletic’s James L. Edwards III, the Knicks have been monitoring Antetokounmpo’s situation very closely, even before the offseason began.
“It is my understanding that Leon Rose and company have been monitoring Giannis Antetokounmpo’s situation in Milwaukee very closely… Many around the league believe the Knicks are interested in star hunting, and while that opportunity hasn’t popped up yet, I certainly believe it’s in the cards if the right situation presents itself” Edwards wrote.
Knicks building, but still star-hunting
Fresh off their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in more than 20 years, the Knicks have been active this offseason. They signed Guerschon Yabusele and Jordan Clarkson, and locked in Mikal Bridges to a four-year, $150 million extension. Even so, sources believe New York is still on the lookout for a blockbuster move and Giannis could be the ultimate prize if circumstances in Milwaukee shift.
Giannis delivers his message
While the rumors swirl, Antetokounmpo appears focused on staying put. Speaking at a sports collectibles convention, the two-time MVP discussed longevity and even joked about shortening his autograph to last 15–20 years in the league.
When a fan shouted “All in Milwaukee,” Giannis echoed back with a clear response: “I want to have a long career. I’m going to play 15–20 years in the NBA. I can’t be doing this autograph… All in Milwaukee, baby.”
The comment reinforces his stated desire to spend his entire career with the Bucks, the team that drafted him 15th overall in 2013. Still, in today’s NBA, words don’t always lock in a player’s future and the Knicks are clearly keeping their options open.
What’s next?
For now, the Bucks remain committed to competing with Antetokounmpo at the helm. But New York’s quiet monitoring of the situation signals that if an opening ever appears, they’ll be ready to make their pitch. Whether Giannis truly finishes his career in Milwaukee or entertains a move to Madison Square Garden remains one of the league’s most intriguing storylines heading into the future.