The New York Knicks: Potential Contenders for Giannis Antetokounmpo

The New York Knicks possess a precious asset that could be their trump card in a potential Giannis Antetokounmpo bidding war. According to ESPN’s Zach Lowe, the Knicks have the advantage of being able to offer the Milwaukee Bucks their 2025 first-round pick, which they acquired from the Kemba Walker-Jalen Durant trade. The idea of acquiring picks from third teams, including themselves, is an interesting proposition for the Bucks. However, Lowe doubts if the Knicks have a young blue-chip player that would pique the Bucks’ interest in a potential trade for Antetokounmpo.

Knicks’ Potential Rivals for Giannis Antetokounmpo

ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne believes the Knicks and the Brooklyn Nets are the top contenders for Antetokounmpo. Shelburne emphasizes that the Knicks are well positioned due to their abundance of assets and the appeal of the New York market. The Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, and Golden State Warriors are considered long shots due to their limited draft capital compared to the Knicks and Nets.

Dark Horse Teams

Two dark horse teams that could make a run at Antetokounmpo are the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Orlando Magic. The Thunder possess assets such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and enticing prospects like Josh Giddey, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams. The Magic also have their own draft picks, including a top-5 protected pick from the Denver Nuggets in 2025. To convince Antetokounmpo, the Magic need to retain their top two players, Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.

By Alder Almo