The Golden State Warriors could offer Klay Thompson and picks, but instead, they should try a package that will stack Milwaukee for the future.
There is no denying teams will be after reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason. After the Milwaukee Bucks lost in five games in the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs, the Warriors should have the phone ready for when the Bucks star wants out.
Per Yahoo!, Giannis has met with the Bucks leadership to discuss his future with the organization. That’s a big step for the young star, but he has yet to say anything about wanting out of Milwaukee. He has yet to force their hand.
For the time being, it’s understood that he’ll be with the Bucks long term.
For Milwaukee, in order to trade him, he’ll have to want out. You don’t just trade a superstar for picks for no reason. Anthony Davis and Paul George were both disgruntled and needed a new home, prompting their blockbuster trades.
But, when Giannis does come out and say it’s that time, the Bucks will have no chance. Much of that change could come soon with Giannis either taking or declining the supermax extension. Giannis is eligible for the supermax.
For the Warriors, if he turns it down and the Bucks look at the market, they’ll be multiple blockbuster deals available. But, the one that has three first-round picks, two of which could be in the top ten, could be the best.
The Warriors could offer the No. 2 pick in the 2020 draft, the Wolves top-three protected pick in the 2021 draft, and then their first-round pick in the 2022 draft. All three plus a player like Andrew Wiggins has to be enough.
It’s unlikely Klay Thompson would be available in negotiations. That said, the three first-round picks must be the allure, and the Warriors should sell it as such.