Fact or fiction: Analyzing 12 Golden State Warriors trade rumors
By Tony Pesta
1. Giannis Antetokounmpo – Fiction
The path to Giannis Antetokounmpo is a complicated one. The Milwaukee superstar is reaching heights that few other players have ever reached and there may not be a package worthy of prying him away from the Bucks.
Using recent examples, consider the amount of future first round draft picks and young assets it took the LA Clippers to steal Paul George from the Thunder. Now imagine a team trying to do the same thing for Giannis – an unbelievably more valuable player. Do you really think even the best Dubs’ package is enough to haul in the two-time MVP and reigning Defensive Player of the Year?
Let’s be real. The only way Giannis ends up in a Warriors uniform next season is if he firmly puts his foot down and refuses to play for any other team. This feels pretty unlikely. Even if the Bucks completely implode in the postseason, the strange circumstances of the Orlando bubble and social justice issues surrounding the playoffs are enough reason for the Bucks to run it back next season if this year ends in disappointment.
There is no chance the Warriors trade for Giannis in the offseason. Perhaps they will have a better opportunity to complete a sign-and-trade next year when he hits the free agency market but it would cost a steep price to get this done. Don’t expect to see Antetokounmpo in a Warriors jersey anytime soon.