Overview

• ESPN reports the Bucks and Knicks held a multiweek dialogue in August, described by one source as an exclusive negotiating window, but talks never gained traction.
• Multiple outlets say the Knicks were the only team Antetokounmpo was willing to join outside Milwaukee during his offseason exploration.
• Milwaukee conveyed a preference to keep Antetokounmpo, with Bucks sources calling New York’s offer insufficient as the Knicks believed the Bucks were never serious about a trade.
• Antetokounmpo remains under contract through at least 2026–27 with a player option and becomes eligible for a four-year supermax extension starting October 1, 2026.
• He returned to start the season with the Bucks and is expected to monitor early results before weighing his future, while New York’s draft-pick shortage after the Bridges and Towns deals restricts its trade firepower.