Wizards Considering Trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo Ahead of NBA Draft
The Milwaukee Bucks and Giannis Antetokounmpo have been caught in an extended back-and-forth all season, and things are starting to come to a head. Milwaukee held onto its two-time MVP through a rough regular season and let the February trade deadline pass without making a move, but the front office is now openly taking calls.
With the 2026 NBA Draft about a month out, league insiders believe a blockbuster trade could happen before draft night as the Bucks look to get maximum value in return.
The Miami Heat have been one of the most frequently mentioned destinations for Antetokounmpo and several other franchises have been keeping tabs on the situation.
The Washington Wizards haven't been a big part of the conversation recently, but ESPN's Marc J. Spears says that might be worth revisiting. According to Spears, Washington is preparing to be aggressive if the opportunity presents itself.
"I basically was told, by a very good source close to that Washington situation, that they're going to explore their options," Spears said during an appearance on 95.7 The Game. "I think that with some of the young talent that they have, why not. The one thing I wonder with Giannis is how much power does he have in where they trade him."
Bucks Would Want Clarity on Giannis Antetokounmpo's Future
A big part of what's driving all this is the contract situation. Controlling owner Wes Edens has been direct about where the organization stands. Milwaukee isn't comfortable heading into next season with a player of Giannis' caliber sitting on the final guaranteed year of his deal without any commitment beyond it.
Antetokounmpo becomes eligible for a projected four-year $275 million extension on October 1, and if he conveys to GM Jon Horst that he won't sign it, that would effectively serve as a trade request.
Spears kept it simple about how the Bucks will handle things from here.
"I do think, at this point, with Giannis, the Bucks are gonna do what's best for them, not what's best for Giannis," he added. "I'm really curious to see if the Bucks can get something done before the draft, 'cause if they're gonna move on, to me, now is the time. This is one of the best drafts in years, probably as good, maybe better than that Cade Cunningham draft."
Washington already proved it's willing to make bold moves after bringing in Anthony Davis and Trae Young last season. Injuries limited both players for long stretches and made it hard to get a real read on the roster, but optimism around the group heading into next year remains genuine.
The Wizards also landed the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA Draft Lottery, which gives the franchise a real shot at speeding up their rebuild.
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This story was originally published May 25, 2026 at 8:03 AM.