Giannis Antetokounmpo has long been the heart of the Milwaukee Bucks, steering the franchise through highs and lows. But after a surprising first-round exit at the hands of the Indiana Pacers, speculation is growing about a possible future without the Greek Freak in Milwaukee.
While the Bucks are unlikely to move Giannis unless he explicitly asks out—something expected to come up in an upcoming meeting with team ownership—a trade demand would trigger a league-wide frenzy. One potential suitor could be the Phoenix Suns, though acquiring Giannis might not be the blessing it appears to be on the surface.
Giannis Could Complicate Durant’s Trade Market
Both the Suns and Bucks have been in “win-now” mode since clashing in the 2021 NBA Finals. But those strategies haven’t paid off. The Suns went all-in by landing Kevin Durant in 2023 and adding Bradley Beal soon after. That so-called super team fizzled, and after finishing a disappointing 36–46, the Suns are facing a possible rebuild.
With former head coach Mike Budenholzer out and trade rumors swirling around Durant, the Suns are reportedly open to resetting their roster. The problem? If Giannis becomes available, he’ll likely overshadow Durant on the trade market.
Durant, still elite, might not be as appealing as the younger Giannis, who just averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists this season. He’s also under contract for two more years and is expected to finish in the top five in MVP voting.
There’s strong interest in both stars, but front offices—like those of the Spurs, Rockets, Warriors, or Heat—may find Giannis the more valuable piece. As a result, Phoenix could face diminished returns for Durant.
Whether or not Giannis ends up on the move, his decision could drastically reshape the market—and the Suns’ plans. If he becomes available, interest in Durant may drop sharply.
