Blockbuster Giannis Antetokounmpo trade could land Bucks former no. 1 draft pick

Yahoo

8 hours ago

The Milwaukee Bucks saw an earlier exit from the NBA playoffs than they are likely used to last year, losing to the eventual Eastern Conference champions, the Indiana Pacers in five games.
And even though the franchise has seemed very adamant about keeping their star power forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, they could get more for him than they likely expect.
According to Bleacher Report's Connor Thoms, who presented some "wild trade ideas" for the offseason, and one of them included a deal the Bucks and the Atlanta Hawks that would send Giannis to Atlanta and the Bucks would receive the 2024 no. 1 overall pick Zaccharie Risacher and also Jalen Johnson.
Despite what many may believe, Thoms believes that both sides would be walking away happy and with substantial compensation.
"If you're the Bucks, you get a phenomenal return, in my opinion," said Thoms. "Jalen Johnson could be a legitimate All-Star for you as soon as next season. You get back four first-round picks and a swap. Those Hawks picks could be interesting."
Thoms also believes that if Giannis truly wanted a trade, then the team wouldn't be one to hold their star hostage.
"The reason the Bucks waived and stretched Dame is to try and keep Giannis in town, but if Giannis goes, 'I want to be dealt,' then you're out of luck. You have to trade. You have to get a return, and that's what it comes down to."