Insider Names Top 2 Landing Spots For Giannis Antetokounmpo This Summer

May 13, 2025 , ,

Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo

NBA Insider Brian Windhorst Explains Why Spurs and Rockets Are Top Suitors for Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s time with the Milwaukee Bucks may be coming to an end following their playoff exit against the Indiana Pacers. A surprising report from ESPN’s Shams Charania reveals that the Bucks superstar is open to exploring a move away from Milwaukee. 

The news has sent the NBA world into a frenzy, with analysts speculating on potential trade destinations for the two-time MVP.



Now, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst believes the San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets are best positioned to make a compelling offer for Antetokounmpo. 

He explained, “When considering a Giannis trade, two key factors matter for the Bucks. First, they don’t control their own first-round picks for the next five years, meaning they can’t afford to tank—they need win-now players in return. Second, trading Giannis to a superteam wouldn’t yield valuable draft picks, as those selections would likely be late in the first round. That’s why teams like San Antonio and Houston stand out—they have young talent and additional draft assets from other teams.”



How Giannis Fits with the Rockets and Spurs

Antetokounmpo is set to earn $54.1 million next season, taking up roughly 35% of a team’s salary cap. Both the Rockets and Spurs would need to match that salary in a trade, which could require parting with key players.

For Houston, a deal might involve Jalen Green or Alperen Şengün, as Fred VanVleet (assuming he opts in) may not be enticing enough for Milwaukee. The Rockets could also include young assets like Jabari Smith Jr. or Tari Eason, along with future picks (such as Brooklyn’s 2031 first-rounder and a 2027 swap) to sweeten the offer.

As for San Antonio, pairing Giannis with Victor Wembanyama would create a dominant frontcourt. However, the Spurs would likely need to trade Devin Vassell or Keldon Johnson to make the salaries work. 

Their No. 4 overall pick in this year’s draft could also be a valuable trade chip, though they’d prefer to keep Wembanyama, Fox, and Stephon Castle as their core.

With Giannis’ future uncertain, all eyes will be on his next move—and whether the Spurs or Rockets can pull off a blockbuster deal.


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