Overview

• Reporting says the Bucks and Knicks held an exclusive window of talks in August, but sources describe no traction on a Giannis Antetokounmpo trade.
• ESPN’s Shams Charania reported New York was the only team Antetokounmpo was willing to join outside Milwaukee.
• The Knicks’ offer was constrained by depleted draft capital and Mikal Bridges’ new extension, which keeps him ineligible for trade until February.
• Bucks GM Jon Horst met Antetokounmpo in Athens this summer, and Milwaukee has retooled by stretching Damian Lillard’s deal and signing Myles Turner.
• Analysts note Milwaukee could face pressure if the team starts poorly, with some doubting Golden State’s ability to bid and others pointing to teams like the Spurs, Hawks or Raptors as potential suitors.