Giannis Antetokounmpo, Raptors have ‘mutual interest' as Bucks exit rumors ramp up
The Greek Freak has some interest in Canada.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has been the center of trade talks since the Bucks' season went down in flames in the first round of the playoffs, which included Damian Lillard tearing his Achilles.
The Toronto Star's Doug Smith reports that Antetokounmpo and the Raptors have 'mutual interest' and could be a good match in a potential trade.
Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks and Damian Lillard #0 of the Milwaukee Bucks
NBAE via Getty Images
Smith did qualify the report by adding that the odds are 'long' that the Raptors will outbid the bevy of teams looking to acquire a star player of this quality.
Milwaukee, which doesn't control its first-round draft pick until 2031, would need a combination of draft capital and young players to complete any deal for its prized perennial MVP candidate.
Antetokounmpo has not officially asked for a trade, but The Post's Brian Lewis reported that he is exploring his options and could opt to force his way out of Milwaukee. The Nets are also a potential landing spot.
The Nets would have a tougher time trading for Antetokounmpo than most, despite having more draft picks than just about any team in the NBA.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has been the subject of trade rumors.
Getty Images
Should Antetokounmpo request a trade, a list of teams would likely be sent to the Bucks of who he would like to go to, potentially giving the Raptors or Nets a chance to acquire him even if they aren't a perfect fit.
Antetokounmpo, 30, is a two-time MVP and, in 2020, helped the Bucks win their first championship since 1971.
Toronto would likely trade most of its draft capital to acquire Antetokounmpo and could look to trade young players RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley.
The Golden State Warriors are also widely expected to be in the mix should he leave the Bucks.
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