The Golden State Warriors have long dreamed of pairing their superstar, Stephen Curry, with a transformative talent like Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks’ two-time MVP. Recent developments suggest that the Warriors’ faint hopes of landing the Greek Freak may not be as far-fetched as once thought, as the NBA rumor mill continues to churn with intrigue.
A Signal of Stability in Milwaukee?
This week, the Bucks secured Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Giannis’ older brother, to a one-year, $2.9 million guaranteed contract, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The move is widely interpreted as a sign that Giannis remains committed to Milwaukee, at least for the immediate future. Thanasis, a locker-room favorite and key part of the Bucks’ culture, has often been linked to his brother’s decision-making process. His return suggests stability for the Bucks’ core, including Giannis, who signed a three-year, $186 million extension in 2023.
However, the Warriors and several other teams are undeterred. Veteran NBA insider Marc Stein reported that despite Milwaukee’s outward confidence in retaining Giannis, multiple franchises are quietly monitoring the situation. “I can think of at least six or seven teams that have been anticipating an opportunity to make a credible trade run at him,” Stein wrote in his Substack newsletter, The Stein Line. The Warriors, in particular, have long viewed Antetokounmpo as their dream trade target, a notion that dates back to the peak of their dynasty.
Curry and Antetokounmpo: A Connection Beyond the Court
Fueling speculation about a potential Warriors-Giannis partnership was Antetokounmpo’s surprise appearance at Stephen Curry’s party in San Francisco during All-Star weekend in February. The event, attended by Warriors owner Joe Lacob, forward Draymond Green, and former center Kevon Looney, sparked excitement within the organization. “Warriors officials on hand took (gleeful) notice,” wrote Sam Amick of The Athletic, highlighting the significance of Giannis’ presence at a Warriors-centric event.
Adding to the intrigue, both Curry and Antetokounmpo are represented by Octagon, a global agency with strong ties to the international basketball community. Giannis is managed by Alex Saratsis, a fellow Greek, while Curry is represented by Jeff Austin, head of Octagon’s basketball division. Saratsis also represents Seth Curry, Stephen’s brother, who has been linked to Golden State as a potential free-agent target. These connections, while not definitive, keep the Warriors in the conversation as a possible destination for Antetokounmpo.
What Would a Trade Look Like?
If Giannis were to push for a trade—an unlikely but not impossible scenario—the Warriors have the assets to make a compelling offer. A one-for-one swap involving Jimmy Butler, whom Golden State acquired this summer, would align the salaries, as both players command max-level contracts. To sweeten the deal, the Warriors could include up to four first-round picks, three of which are unprotected, providing Milwaukee with valuable draft capital.
Additionally, Golden State could offer Jonathan Kuminga, a 22-year-old former lottery pick and restricted free agent, as a young cornerstone for the Bucks to build around. Milwaukee has previously shown interest in Kuminga, with ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel reporting that the Bucks inquired about a sign-and-trade for the forward but balked when the Warriors requested Bobby Portis in return.
However, the Bucks face challenges in any potential trade scenario. They do not control their own first-round picks until 2031, which reduces their flexibility to pivot toward a rebuild if Giannis were to leave. This dynamic could make Milwaukee hesitant to entertain trade offers unless Giannis explicitly requests a move.
The Warriors’ Persistent Pursuit
For now, Giannis appears content in Milwaukee, bolstered by his brother’s return and the Bucks’ continued competitiveness in the Eastern Conference. Yet, the Warriors remain poised to pounce if circumstances change. With a championship pedigree, a star-studded roster featuring Curry and Butler, and a treasure trove of draft picks, Golden State is well-positioned to make a blockbuster move.
As Stein noted, the Warriors are among a handful of teams still “plotting behind closed doors” to lure Antetokounmpo. If the Bucks’ situation shifts—whether due to on-court struggles or Giannis’ long-term vision—the Warriors plan to be first in line to reshape the NBA landscape with a trade that could redefine their franchise.