It isn’t even 2026 but, however NBA groups are already protecting an in depth eye on the standing of a sure famous person and two-time MVP that would turn into out there. Giannis Antetokounmpo, who gained’t be capable of hit the open market till the summer time of 2026—assuming he doesn’t signal an extension—might turn into one of the crucial anticipated free brokers in NBA historical past.
If he does determine to depart Milwaukee, there are already three frontrunners to land him, however there are additionally three unlikely groups that may very well be within the combine. The Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder, San Antonio Spurs, and Toronto Raptors are all seen as attainable candidates.
NBA Rumors: OKC, Spurs, and Raptors are candidates to land Giannis Antetokounmpo.
None of these groups instantly come to thoughts as free-agent locations, however all of them might make compelling circumstances to Giannis if he ever hits free company. The Thunder have a powerful younger core that features Shai Gilgrist-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Josh Giddey. Additionally they have probably the most draft picks of any staff within the NBA.
That may not issue into Giannis’ choice to affix them, but when the Bucks determine to commerce him earlier than the summer time of 2026, the Thunder might use these belongings to make a deal. In the meantime, the Spurs simply added generational expertise Victor Wembanyama to what’s arguably the most effective younger core within the NBA. Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson are each simply 23 they usually mixed to common 40 factors per recreation final season.
They need to be even higher subsequent season, as ought to 2022 tenth general choose Jeremy Sochan, who has the potential to be one of the crucial versatile gamers within the NBA. After OKC, the Spurs have the next-most belongings to supply, and Wembanyama has the prospect to be a top-10 participant within the league by the point Giannis can turn into a free agent.
That offers them a giant leg-up over the competitors. As for Toronto, Giannis has a relationship with GM Masai Ujuri, although they don’t but have the belongings or younger stars that OKC and the Spurs do.
Total, with key gamers like Khris Middleton, Jrue Vacation, and Brook Lopez aged 32, 33, and 35, respectively, the Bucks could have a tough time constructing a winner round Giannis going ahead. That gives a gap for a number of groups, and the Thunder, Spurs, and Raptors may very well be robust candidates to amass him.
Printed on 08/31/2023 at 12:00 PM EDTLast up to date on 08/31/2023 at 6:37 AM EDT
