NBA Trade Rumors Heat Up Before Draft with Antetokounmpo Staying Put

NEW YORK, NY — With the NBA Draft just a month away, trade rumors are heating up across the league. Key players and analysts are weighing in on potential moves, particularly surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo and other high-profile athletes.

Paul George recently discussed the ongoing speculation regarding Antetokounmpo’s future during an episode of his podcast. George believes that the Milwaukee Bucks superstar is likely to remain with the team, defying the trade rumors that have surfaced. “He ain’t going nowhere… Giannis built Milwaukee,” George said.

George articulated that players from international backgrounds, like Antetokounmpo, tend to stay with the teams that drafted them. He emphasized, “I think he wants to stay in Milwaukee his whole career… It’s a legacy thing with Giannis and Milwaukee.” A meeting between Antetokounmpo and the Bucks management is reportedly on the agenda, where the team will outline its strategy for reshaping the roster.

The upcoming season could be challenging for the Bucks as their point guard Damian Lillard is expected to miss most if not all of the year due to a torn Achilles. This situation could prompt Antetokounmpo to reconsider his loyalty if the team struggles to compete.

Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks are actively seeking a point guard as they anticipate that Kyrie Irving will not play for an extended period following a torn ACL. Reports suggest that the Mavericks are eyeing Jrue Holiday and free agent Lonzo Ball to fill this critical position.

The Brooklyn Nets hold four first-round picks in the 2025 NBA Draft and are reportedly interested in moving up in the draft to secure Dylan Harper, who is projected to be a top selection. This speculation is fueled by Harper’s father, Ron, who has encouraged such moves.

Other teams, like the San Antonio Spurs and Philadelphia 76ers, are also open to trades involving their draft picks. The Spurs are seeking substantial offers for potential trades, and the 76ers have indicated a willingness to discuss the No. 3 pick.

The NBA landscape is rapidly changing as teams weigh their options heading into the draft. With several key players expected to opt-out of their contracts, including Kyrie Irving and James Harden, the trade market is poised for a flurry of activity this summer.

Ultimately, the upcoming NBA Draft will be a pivotal moment for many franchises, with anticipation high for trades and player movements across the league.