The New York Knicks and Milwaukee Bucks were in trade talks for Giannis Antetokounmpo over the summer, according to reports.
Since then, Giannis Antetokounmpo trade rumors have gained momentum, with the New York Knicks emerging as a likely suitor.
The Knicks want to win a championship, and they have a chance to do so right now.
Giannis has not officially requested a trade, but if he does request one later this season, the Knicks could do so right away.
It’s scary to think of Giannis being on the Knicks. New York already has a championship roster, and adding the Greek Freak would make them the clear favorites in the East.
However, trading Antetokounmpo would come at a cost. Bill Simmons warned the Knicks about the Giannis rumors and compared it to LeBron James’ teams of the past.
There were always trade rumors among James’ teammates, which derailed the team’s performance. Simmons said that’s something the Knicks don’t want because constant rumors could ruin their season.
“The only thing I was really concerned about was that Giannis was going to go bad and all the rumors and trades started and this team could be hurt by just the trade rumors.
“That always happens with LeBron’s teams, starting in December, January, February, they were just a rumor.
“OG Anunoby, Towns as kind of a piece for Giannis, and it’s just, I think __ will make the team if they’re just rumors starting in January.”
The Knicks reportedly have no intention of parting with Jalen Brunson in a trade for Giannis, meaning they would likely have to include Karl-Anthony Towns.
However, if the Knicks don’t want Towns, they’ll have to part ways with OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart.
That’s a lot of quality depth for one player to part with, but it’s the price to pay when acquiring a superstar like Giannis.
It will be interesting to see how this season goes and whether Antetokounmpo reveals his desire to leave at some point.