The Knicks are looking for answers after a disappointing end to their season.
Giannis Antetokounmpo is looking for a new destination after a string of disappointment with the Bucks.
Together they could make a happy marriage.
It’s a union that was suggested on a recent episode of The Bill Simmons Podcast.
But it’s not a simple one-for-one trade.
Simmons suggested a three-team blockbuster that would shift key players in both conferences.
Anything is possible in what could be one of the wildest NBA offseasons in recent memory.
Knicks trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo
Simmons’ hypothetical deal involves the Knicks, Bucks, and surprisingly, the Spurs.
Here’s what it would look like.
Knicks receive:
- Giannis Antetokounmpo
- Pat Connaughton
- Kyle Kuzma
Bucks receive:
- Karl-Anthony Towns
- Devin Vassell
- 2026 1st round pick (via San Antonio)
- 2028 1st round pick (via San Antonio)
Spurs receive:
Bridges could be potentially swapped out for OG Anunoby, but one way or another a core two-way forward would be headed to South Texas.
It’s a hypothetical blockbuster that would scatter multiple All-Stars on new teams. The Spurs could swap Vassell and a couple firsts for an upgraded wing to put alongside Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox.
The Bucks would recoup assets from a disgruntled superstar in Antetokounmpo. Towns, Vassell, and two firsts gives them pieces for now and the future. Milwaukee also sheds Kuzma’s salary.
This deal has the strongest ripple effects for the Knicks. They would trade two key pieces for the two-time MVP. It’s a gamble that could pay off or brutally backfire.
New York has the depth to make this deal. They can pair Jalen Brunson with Giannis and count on improvement from young players like Miles McBride and Tyler Kolek.
But if it went poorly the Knicks would be fracturing a team that defeated the defending-champion Boston Celtics.
Could the New York Knicks trade for Giannis this offseason?@BillSimmons fired up the trade machine and breaks down how the Knicks could make a deal for the two-time MVP. pic.twitter.com/IetbutyoKu
— The Ringer (@ringer) June 2, 2025
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It’s a high-risk, high-reward situation but New York would have to try it if the opportunity arose.
Simmons, the architect of the skyscraper deal, said himself he wouldn’t accept the deal if he was in charge of the Bucks.
“I’d rather keep Giannis, take him into February, and if we have to trade him then we have more leverage at that point,” Simmons said.
While that could be the case, it would be more fun to see Antetokounmpo at Madison Square Garden next season.
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