
NBA Analyst Floats Knicks Theory Regarding Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jason Kidd
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The New York Knicks made a major move following their Eastern Conference Finals loss to the Indiana Pacers, firing head coach Tom Thibodeau. Since that move, rumors have begun flying with both Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jason Kidd at the center of them.
After a great all-around 2024-25 NBA season, the rumor mill is suggesting that the Knicks could blow some things up during the offseason.
Last offseason, New York made two major moves by acquiring both Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns in separate trades. This offseason, the Knicks might be looking to make another monstrous trade.
Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks drives to the basket defended by Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks during the second half at Madison Square Garden on January 12, 2025 in New...
Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks drives to the basket defended by Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks during the second half at Madison Square Garden on January 12, 2025 in New York City. More
Photo byAccording to a report from longtime NBA reporter Gery Woelfel, New York is preparing to make a "tsunami-type offer" to trade for Antetokounmpo. In addition, the Knicks may be trying to bring in a favorite of the superstar forward to be their new head coach.
Read more: Warriors Trade Idea Lands 2-Time All-Star in Massive Offseason Move
Kidd was Antetokounmpo's head coach with the Milwaukee Bucks. He is receiving interest from New York for its head coaching position, according to NBA insider Marc Stein.
"Knicks expected to formally request permission to speak to Jason Kidd," he reported. "Knicks interest described by league sources as serious. Some believe Kidd is at top of NY's wish list. Unclear how Dallas would respond to Knicks."
Now, notable sports analyst Nick Wright has chimed in on the topic. He shared an eye-opening theory about Antetokounmpo and Kidd potentially teaming up with the Knicks.
"Perhaps someone from Giannis' camp said 'if Person X was your coach maybe Giannis would ask for a trade to the Knicks specifically,'" Wright said.
Bringing in Kidd would certainly make New York a more attractive destination for Antetokounmpo. He has been very vocal about his love for the former NBA superstar and current Dallas Mavericks' head coach.
Read more: Shaquille O'Neal Shares Harsh Criticism for Thunder After NBA Finals Loss
Of course, all of this is pure speculation at this point. The Mavericks may not let the Knicks interview Kidd and it's quite possible that Kidd wouldn't want to leave Dallas to join New York. It's simply something to keep an eye on.
If the Knicks were to bring Antetokounmpo and Kidd on board, it would likely come at the cost of a new-look roster. A duo of Jalen Brunson and Antetokounmpo would be lethal, but New York would have to give up a lot of value to make it happen.
New York fans should buckle up for what will seemingly be a very busy offseason.
For more on the New York Knicks and general NBA news, head on over to Newsweek Sports.

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