Trade conversations surrounding Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo remain active hours before the deadline, with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Miami Heat still pushing for a deal, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer. The latest update arrives as Milwaukee sits 19-29 and 12th in the Eastern Conference, creating pressure around the franchise’s long-term direction.
Fischer reported Thursday that both contenders believe they are still in contention for the two-time MVP. “The Wolves and Heat, sources say, still believe they are in play for landing Giannis Antetokounmpo today, although like the Warriors, few believe Milwaukee is actually serious about parting ways with their franchise face,” he wrote.
Minnesota enters the deadline at 31-20, seventh in the Western Conference, and has built one of the league’s most efficient offenses behind Anthony Edwards’ 29.7 points per game. Adding a downhill force like Antetokounmpo would give Chris Finch’s group another interior creator.
From a basketball perspective, the Wolves’ spacing and transition pace align with the Greek forward’s strengths, especially with shooters such as Donte DiVincenzo and Naz Reid stretching the floor.
Miami, currently 27-25 and seventh in the East, presents a different structure built on defense and half-court execution. Bam Adebayo anchors the interior while Norman Powell leads the scoring at 23.0 points, giving Erik Spoelstra a balanced roster that could integrate another high-usage star without changing the system’s identity.
Fischer added another layer to the situation by noting Milwaukee’s broader trade conversations. “I’m still being told the Bucks are engaged with the Grizzlies on Ja Morant as well,” he reported.
League-wide skepticism continues to grow regarding whether a blockbuster will actually materialize before the deadline. Several teams, including Golden State, have adjusted strategies after communication from Milwaukee slowed in recent days.
From a strategic standpoint, the Bucks hold leverage by waiting, as Antetokounmpo’s contract timeline and the team’s position near the lottery could reshape the market this summer. That uncertainty leaves both Minnesota and Miami preparing offers while balancing roster depth and future assets.
As the clock ticks toward the deadline, rival executives remain focused on Milwaukee’s next move, knowing that a single decision could shift the balance of both conferences.
