NBA Free Agency Frenzy: Will Giannis Antetokounmpo Stay in Milwaukee or Test the Market?

By Edcel Panganiban June 10, 2025 09:10

As the 2025 NBA offseason unfolds, all eyes are on Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks' two-time MVP and reigning Finals MVP, who for the first time in his career is openly considering whether to remain in Milwaukee or explore new opportunities. This development has sparked intense speculation across the league, with rival teams and analysts weighing the possibilities of a blockbuster trade or a monumental free agency decision.

Giannis is currently under contract through the 2027-28 season, which includes a player option, and will be eligible to sign a four-year, $293.4 million extension in 2026 either with the Bucks or another franchise. Historically, Giannis has expressed a deep connection to Milwaukee, famously stating in February 2025, "The Bucks would have to kick me out to get me to leave." Yet, his comments over the years have been mixed; in a 2023 New York Times interview, he emphasized his desire to compete for more championships, even if that meant leaving Milwaukee.

The Bucks have aggressively tried to build around Giannis, acquiring stars like Jrue Holiday in 2020 and Damian Lillard in 2023 to bolster their championship aspirations. However, Lillard's torn Achilles tendon during the 2025 playoffs severely impacted the team's prospects, and the Bucks were eliminated in the first round for the third consecutive season. This disappointing outcome has fueled rumors that Giannis might request a trade or at least seriously consider free agency.

League insiders remain skeptical about Giannis actually leaving, with many executives adopting a "wait and see" approach. As one source noted, "There is not a lot of belief right now... that someone who has valued being the franchise face... is going to want to play somewhere else." Still, the Bucks and Giannis are scheduled to meet soon to discuss his future and the team’s direction.

Should the Bucks decide to trade Giannis, only a few teams have the assets, salary cap flexibility, and competitive rosters to make a viable offer. The Houston Rockets and Atlanta Hawks stand out as potential suitors. Houston, despite navigating a financial tightrope, boasts nine future first-round picks and young stars like Jabari Smith Jr. and Amen Thompson, making them an intriguing option. Atlanta, with salary cap space and draft equity, could also mount a compelling package centered around Trae Young and other young talent.

However, trading for Giannis is no small feat. Bucks forward Bobby Portis highlighted the challenge: "You trade for him, obviously, he's going to make, what, $58-$60 million. You've got to trade your whole team, right?" This underscores the enormous cost and risk involved, especially considering Giannis' potential free agency in 2027, which could leave a team empty-handed if he departs after a short tenure.

Ultimately, Giannis’ decision will hinge on his assessment of the Bucks’ commitment to building a championship contender around him. He once said, "As long as we approach every game the right way and everyone commits to a common objective, I can envision myself with the Milwaukee Bucks for the entirety of my career. However, the moment I sense that others are not as dedicated as I am to achieving that ultimate goal, I will be out".

The 2025 offseason promises to be a defining chapter in Giannis Antetokounmpo’s storied career. Whether he remains the cornerstone of Milwaukee’s franchise or embarks on a new journey, the NBA landscape is poised for seismic shifts. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the saga unfolds in the coming weeks.