Bucks Seek Draft Capital From Pelicans, Blazers Amid Giannis Trade Talks

The Milwaukee Bucks are considering trading star Giannis Antetokounmpo, a move likely to involve a complex three-team deal incorporating either the New Orleans Pelicans or Portland Trail Blazers. Both teams hold significant future draft picks originally belonging to Milwaukee, making their inclusion crucial for the Bucks to regain valuable draft capital amid a potential rebuild. The Pelicans control Bucks' first-round picks in 2025, 2026, and 2027 due to the Jrue Holiday trade, while the Blazers hold pick swaps for 2028 and 2030 and the 2029 first-round pick from the Damian Lillard deal. Antetokounmpo is reportedly open to exploring options beyond Milwaukee, though no firm decision has been made. Any trade would likely require substantial compensation, including promising players and draft assets, given the high cost of acquiring Antetokounmpo and the value of the draft picks held by the Pelicans and Blazers. This scenario underscores the Bucks' intent to balance immediate roster changes with long-term rebuilding prospects.