NBA rumors: Bucks want Timberwolves to get back in Giannis Antetokounmpo trade mix

Trade speculation surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo took another turn Friday after a new report suggested the Milwaukee Bucks would welcome renewed interest from the Minnesota Timberwolves despite recent indications that Minnesota was no longer actively pursuing the two-time MVP.

On Thursday, Jake Fischer of The Stein Line reported that the Timberwolves, Orlando Magic and Golden State Warriors were not involved in recent discussions surrounding Antetokounmpo. However, new reporting from The Athletic’s Sam Amick and Eric Nehm suggests Milwaukee still views Minnesota as a viable trade partner if the Timberwolves decide to reenter the sweepstakes.

“The Timberwolves, meanwhile, are also seen by some as an emerging option for the Bucks,” Amick and Nehm wrote.

“While Antetokounmpo is known to prefer a trade involving a team in the Eastern Conference, league sources say the Bucks are interested in what Minnesota has to offer.”

According to the report, Milwaukee has a clear framework in mind for any potential deal. League sources told The Athletic that the Bucks would seek a package centered around Jaden McDaniels, Naz Reid, Terrence Shannon Jr. and Minnesota’s two tradable first-round selections, including the No. 29 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft and a 2033 first-round pick.

However, that proposal appears to face significant resistance from the Timberwolves.

Amick and Nehm reported that Minnesota has indicated McDaniels is off limits. The same reportedly applies to 19-year-old center Joan Beringer, one of the organization’s most promising young prospects.

Those restrictions create a substantial hurdle in negotiations, particularly given McDaniels’ importance alongside Anthony Edwards. The versatile forward remains one of the league’s premier perimeter defenders and played a key role during Minnesota’s recent postseason run.

Bucks still hope Timberwolves reenter Giannis Antetokounmpo trade race

The report also highlighted Timberwolves president Tim Connelly’s aggressive approach to roster building. Connelly has consistently pursued star talent throughout his tenure and reportedly explored the possibility of acquiring both Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant in recent months.

Despite those efforts, Minnesota has yet to land another superstar to pair with Edwards.

The Timberwolves face important decisions this offseason after falling short of a third consecutive Western Conference Finals appearance. Minnesota was eliminated in six games by the eventual Western Conference champion San Antonio Spurs during the second round of the playoffs.

With the Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder continuing to rise in the Western Conference, the pressure to maximize Edwards’ championship window remains significant.

At the same time, the latest report can also be interpreted as Milwaukee attempting to gauge whether Minnesota’s stance could soften. While Fischer reported Thursday that the Timberwolves were not actively involved, The Athletic’s reporting suggests the Bucks remain interested in what Minnesota could offer if circumstances change.

For now, Antetokounmpo remains in Milwaukee. Yet the differing reports underscore how fluid the trade landscape remains as teams continue evaluating whether to pursue one of the NBA’s most accomplished players.

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