The Golden State Warriors may not be a realistic landing spot for Giannis Antetokounmpo, but there are still moves to be made.
Golden State is one or two key rotation pieces away from contention.
After acquiring Jimmy Butler at the trade deadline, the team showed promise but fell short in the second round of the playoffs, hampered by Stephen Curry’s injury.
With a roster already boasting Curry, Butler, and Draymond Green, general manager Mike Dunleavy should be looking to add size and depth to the frontcourt.
As free agency looms, one intriguing name has surfaced as a potential target for the Warriors.
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As part of The Stein Line newsletter, NBA insider Jake Fischer recently shed light on the Warriors’ offseason plans, highlighting a Milwaukee Bucks forward as a player to watch.
“Team executives expect (Bobby) Portis to have numerous potential landing spots in the midlevel market … although Milwaukee would like to bring back the 30-year-old forward, sources say. Golden State has always been a team to monitor for Portis, who has a notable fan in head coach Steve Kerr from their shared days during the 2023 FIBA World Cup competition with USA Basketball.”
Portis, a 6-foot-10 forward-center, brings a skill set that aligns with the Warriors’ needs. His ability to stretch the floor and crash the boards would make him a natural fit alongside Curry and Butler.
It sounds like it’ll be tough for Golden State — or anyone else — to pry away Portis from Milwaukee, however, where Portis remains a fan favorite since winning a 2021 title there.
The Warriors’ interest in Portis predates their Butler acquisition, with reports indicating they eyed him at the trade deadline. With a $13.4 million player option for 2025-26, Portis faces a decision by June 29: opt in and stay with the Bucks or opt out for a longer-term deal elsewhere.
Fischer’s report suggests Portis could command offers in the midlevel market, potentially around $14 million annually, which Golden State could offer via a sign-and-trade or their non-tax midlevel exception if they stay under the luxury tax.
The Bucks’ recent first-round playoff exits and uncertainty around Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future could prompt a roster shakeup.
As free agency nears, all eyes will be on whether Portis opts out and if the Warriors can secure the former Sixth Man contender to round out their roster.
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