The Milwaukee Bucks are facing the end of a disappointing 2024-25 NBA season. Giannis Antetokounmpo's triple-double became dust when Tyrese Haliburton shot the game-winning layup in the final seconds of overtime.

Having lost 3-1 to the Indiana Pacers in the first round of the NBA Playoffs, the team was dealt another devastating blow—star guard Damian Lillard has suffered an Achilles tendon injury, rendering Milwaukee without their primary offensive threat.

This follows a strong start to the season, where the Bucks claimed the first-ever NBA Cup. While the early trophy haul might have raised hopes, the season has not been going as well as expected, particularly for Antetokounmpo, whose tolerance might at last be ebbing away.

Giannis Antetokounmpo Might Wear a New Uniform Soon

NBA Trade Rumors: Giannis' Tenure With Bucks is Numbered After NBA Trade Rumors: Giannis' Tenure With Bucks is Numbered After
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As the Bucks' campaign comes to an end, everyone is looking at Giannis Antetokounmpo. ESPN's Brian Windhorst, as reported by Blog de Basket, says that the whole league is on hold.

The NBA insider wondered if Giannis would stick with the Bucks through thick and thin or if he will ask for a trade this time. But that would depend on Greek Freak's choice for the offseason.

Antetokounmpo is contracted until 2027, which means he must be traded out if he is to leave. If he decides to leave, the Bucks will likely craft a franchise-altering trade for future assets and compete in the Eastern Conference.

Memphis Grizzlies Become Preeminent Suitors for Giannis

The Memphis Grizzlies might be prime suitors to acquire Giannis. With a possible deal revolving around Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis might send over an enticing bundle of youthful players and a handful of first-round picks. The move would pair Giannis with Ja Morant and Desmond Bane to form a powerhouse Western Conference threesome.

According to Sports Illustrated, a rumored three-team trade featuring the Atlanta Hawks might make it more interesting, with Brandon Clarke and A.J. Green going to Atlanta as the Bucks get a mix of Jackson Jr., GG Jackson, John Konchar, Terance Mann, and a handful of future draft assets.

How Can Milwaukee Benefit From This Trade?

From Milwaukee's perspective, getting an All-Star youth in Jackson Jr. would provide a strong starter to build around. He provides world-class defense and emerging offense, and future drafts would get to mold the next generation of Bucks basketball. GG Jackson also gives long-term potential, and additions like Konchar and Mann for veterans keep them competitive in the short term.

But Jackson Jr.'s playoff ineffectiveness makes one wonder whether he can guide a team. Coupled with injury-plagued assets and salary commitments, the Bucks would be making an educated gamble.

The NBA Offseason Rests on Giannis' Choice

Stay or leave, Giannis Antetokounmpo is the linchpin to the 2025 NBA offseason. The Bucks might need to double back on the nine-time All-Star if they have faith that he and Lillard will be healthy next season.

On the other hand, trading him is also a sound option to explore more chemistry in the market. This could be an earthquake trade that is inevitable to happen in merely weeks from now.