The Milwaukee Bucks face a critical decision regarding Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future. Co-owners Wes Edens and Jimmy Haslam will jointly determine whether to extend Antetokounmpo’s contract or explore a trade.
Extension or Trade: The Bucks’ Dilemma
Edens stated that the Bucks cannot afford to let Antetokounmpo play out the last year of his contract. He said that either Antetokounmpo will be extended or he’ll be traded. Antetokounmpo is eligible for a four-year, $275 million extension on Oct. 1.
However, sources suggest the situation is more complex than a typical contract negotiation. The Bucks’ ownership structure has made it difficult for other franchises to understand who is in charge.
Ownership Structure Creates Uncertainty
One source with knowledge of the team’s operations said that the decision on whether to trade Giannis is unclear. The source stated that it depends on the day. “They’re not even close to being ready to make a decision like that,” the source said.
Edens is the team’s controlling owner until April 2028.
Rival Teams Eye Antetokounmpo
Antetokounmpo has stated his desire to remain in Milwaukee, but only with a championship-caliber team. Nearly every NBA team is waiting for Antetokounmpo to decide when those variables are mutually exclusive.
Several teams are positioning themselves to potentially acquire Antetokounmpo. Teams like the Lakers, Clippers, Heat and Warriors all have lined up to have cap space in 2027 when Giannis can be a free agent.
- Antetokounmpo is eligible for a four-year, $275 million extension on Oct. 1.
- The Bucks co-owners will jointly decide on extending or trading Antetokounmpo.
- Multiple teams are preparing for Antetokounmpo to become a free agent in 2027.
The question remains whether the Bucks will trade Antetokounmpo before he reaches free agency, and how that decision will be made.