The Golden State Warriors’ quest for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo hit a wall at the trade deadline, but a stunning development has reignited hope in the Bay Area. Despite Antetokounmpo’s firm commitment to Milwaukee during All-Star weekend, new insights reveal that the Warriors could still orchestrate a blockbuster deal this offseason.
Antetokounmpo shut down trade rumors emphatically in an ESPN interview, stating, “As of today, I’m committed to the Milwaukee Bucks. You will never hear me say I don’t want to be a Milwaukee Buck.” This was a blow to Golden State, who had aggressively pursued the two-time MVP and put together one of the most compelling offers on the table. When the Bucks refused to budge, the Warriors pivoted, sending Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Kristaps Porzingis.
But the Giannis saga is anything but over. On Monday, cap expert Yossi Gozlan dropped a game-changing analysis on Third Apron, outlining a clever path for the Warriors to land Antetokounmpo this summer—even after parting with key assets at the deadline.
Warriors’ Secret Weapon: Contract Magic with Green and Porzingis
Getty Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo looks on. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)
The breakthrough centers on the contract statuses of Draymond Green and Kristaps Porzingis. Both players are eligible for extensions that would not only keep them trade-eligible heading into the offseason but also allow their salaries to be combined to match Antetokounmpo’s hefty $58.5 million paycheck.
“It’ll be interesting to see how they handle Porzingis and Green’s contract negotiations,” Gozlan explained. “Both can be extended to new deals now that could keep them trade-eligible for the offseason. For example, they could structure their first-year salaries so both can be aggregated for a max player like Antetokounmpo.”
This revelation is a bombshell for Warriors fans, proving that general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. has more tricks up his sleeve. By getting creative with extensions, Golden State can rebuild a competitive trade package, keeping the dream of pairing Antetokounmpo with Stephen Curry alive.
The High Stakes for Golden State
Draymond Green, Warriors Getty Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors.
Pulling off this trade wouldn’t be easy. Parting with Draymond Green—a four-time champion, Defensive Player of the Year, and the heart of the Warriors’ dynasty—would signal the end of an iconic era. Green has spent his entire career in Golden State, and trading him would be an emotional gut punch. Meanwhile, Porzingis was just brought in to bolster the frontcourt for the current playoff push, adding another layer of complexity.
Yet, the prize is worth the pain. Antetokounmpo, a former Defensive Player of the Year and perennial MVP candidate, represents the ultimate upgrade. Teaming him with Curry could vault the Warriors back into championship contention, reminiscent of the Kevin Durant glory days.
Of course, the deal hinges on Antetokounmpo pushing for a move out of Milwaukee. His recent comments paint a picture of loyalty, but with two years left on his contract (including a 2027-28 player option), the offseason could bring fresh speculation. As Gozlan pointed out, the trade deadline merely paused the drama— it didn’t end it.
Warriors Poised to Strike
For now, Giannis Antetokounmpo remains a Buck. But this notable update changes everything for the Warriors. By strategically handling Green and Porzingis’ extensions, Golden State is positioning itself as a top contender if Antetokounmpo ever signals discontent.
The Bay Area is buzzing with anticipation. If the Greek Freak decides it’s time for a change, the Warriors won’t just be in the conversation—they’ll be leading it. This offseason could deliver the biggest trade bombshell in years.