NBA – « If they have the chance to trade for Giannis, I would make that trade »

Par Mathieu Seguin | Rédacteur sport

We still don’t know where Giannis Antetokounmpo will be playing next season, but his case is far from over. For Brian Windhorst, a surprising Eastern team should absolutely take a chance if the opportunity arises.

The Giannis Antetokounmpo soap opera is set to be the story of the summer. He hasn’t closed the door on a departure anytime soon, even if it’s still hard to imagine him away from Milwaukee after this latest setback. We know his love for Wisconsin and the franchise, but we also know that he wants to win a second championship. So it’s normal to have doubts.

After all, Milwaukee seems far from being able to compete anymore. The roster is disappointing and Damian Lillard’s injury is already changing the game for 2026. The Bucks could invite themselves into the playoffs with Giannis’ contribution, especially in the East, but it will be difficult to compete with the big boys. Some franchises could take advantage.

A surprising franchise on Giannis Antetokounmpo?

We know that the Spurs and Rockets are often mentioned in terms of recruiting the star, but the Cavaliers could try their luck. The franchise is highly motivated to bounce back after their loss to the Pacers, however, they may need a little help to take the next step. Giannis would be perfect alongside Donovan Mitchell and co.

But in the event of a trade, Milwaukee will be greedy and should ask for a player like Evan Mobley, the recent Defender of the Year, in order to better rebuild in the future. Should we fall for this hypothetical trade? Yes, according to Brian Windhorst, who believes that Jayson Tatum’s injury in the East is reshuffling the cards.

Brian Windhorst : “If the Cavaliers have the chance to make a trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo, I would make that trade. Speaking of Giannis, I’d say it’s best to stay in the Eastern Conference. With Jayson Tatum’s injury and whether you’re the Knicks or the Cavaliers, you know you have an opportunity. Boston won’t have a full-strength team for a while. If you’re the Cavs, you’ve got a window to the title.”

The same goes for the Knicks, who know the opportunity is there this season to win the title. The Cavaliers will be back in 2026 with the firm intention of bouncing back, and without the Celtics, especially with Tatum’s injury, there’s a good chance of doing something.