Overview

• After reports of August discussions with New York, multiple teams checked with Milwaukee about Antetokounmpo and were told the Bucks are not open to negotiations, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.
• Shams Charania reported the Knicks had an exclusive exploratory window with the Bucks in August that did not progress and has since expired.
• Charania also reported Antetokounmpo discussed his future with team officials and identified the Knicks as the only outside destination, while the All‑NBA forward said he is locked in for now and could reassess in several months.
• Analyst Zach Lowe outlined theoretical packages—Giannis and Kyle Kuzma for Karl‑Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby, or a February variant substituting Mikal Bridges once he becomes trade‑eligible on Feb. 1—emphasizing these are ideas, not active talks.
• New York’s leverage is constrained by limited draft capital, Jalen Brunson’s untouchable status, and roster balance concerns, while other speculative chatter includes a Heat concept reportedly excluding Bam Adebayo and outside teams eyeing opportunities if circumstances change.