Giannis Antetokounmpo trade chaos looms over the NBA landscape
As the February 5 trade deadline approaches, speculation intensifies surrounding the Milwaukee Bucks and their star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo. While a deal sending the two-time MVP to the Golden State Warriors seems unlikely, the potential chaos of his trade could open avenues for the Warriors to target other notable Bucks players. Here are three trade scenarios that could benefit Golden State if Antetokounmpo is moved.
Myles Turner as the ideal frontcourt partner
One player who has long captured the Warriors’ interest is Myles Turner. The center’s unique skill set, combining three-point shooting and rim protection, makes him a coveted asset. His current season averages of 2.3 three-pointers and 1.7 blocks per game highlight his value.
However, acquiring Turner won’t be easy. Given his abilities, multiple teams will likely vie for his services, complicating the trade landscape. Currently, the Warriors’ prospects, Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski, appear to be experiencing a dip in trade value. Yet, Kuminga’s flashes of potential could attract a rebuilding team like the Bucks, who might see him as a project with promise.
Podziemski, still on his rookie contract for the next season and a half, may also pique Milwaukee’s interest. The Bucks might prefer young players over draft picks following a potential haul from the Antetokounmpo trade. That said, the Warriors would need to consider the conditions of any deal, particularly the need for an unprotected first-round pick to make it worthwhile, which could complicate negotiations.
Bobby Portis and the allure of shooting
Another intriguing option for the Warriors is Bobby Portis, whose value has risen thanks to his impressive shooting stats—currently at 45.1 percent from beyond the arc. While the Bucks may not have immediate use for veterans such as Buddy Hield and Al Horford in a rebuilding phase, the protected first-round pick could provide them with necessary assets.
If the Warriors see Portis as a valuable addition but feel hesitant to part with a protected first, Moses Moody could serve as a centerpiece for a proposed trade. Although Moody has faced challenges recently, his potential as a three-and-D wing on a cost-effective contract makes him a valuable asset.
Portis, averaging 11.3 rebounds per 36 minutes, would significantly bolster the Warriors’ frontcourt depth, offering a substantial upgrade over their current bench options.
Kyle Kuzma and Kevin Porter Jr. as trade bait
In the event of a trade involving Jonathan Kuminga, the Warriors might look to acquire Kyle Kuzma and Kevin Porter Jr. However, Kuzma’s current struggles in Milwaukee—marked by a disappointing 33.5 percent shooting from three-point range over 55 games—may diminish his value. Many in the league would likely consider Kuminga, with his age and potential, to hold greater trade allure than Kuzma, who is signed through next season.
A potential trade could involve Porter coming in exchange for Hield, fulfilling two vital roles for the Warriors. Porter’s scoring ability—averaging 19.8 points per game—offers the Warriors a much-needed offensive spark off the bench. However, expectations for him should be tempered, as historical performance suggests his averages may regress closer to his career numbers of 14.0 points and 4.6 assists per game.
Additionally, this trade would allow the Warriors to save $4.1 million, potentially freeing up resources to cut Trayce Jackson-Davis while signing Pat Spencer to a standard contract. Currently, the Warriors are constrained by a hard cap at the second apron, making roster adjustments challenging.
As the trade deadline looms, the situation remains fluid. With the potential for a seismic shift in Milwaukee, the Warriors must weigh their options carefully while looking to position themselves for immediate and future success.
