NBA Trade Rumors: Oklahoma Thunder to trade Giannis Antetokounmpo: OKC Could Be NBA’s Ultimate Power Team
With Damian Lillard possibly suffering a devastating Achilles injury and the Milwaukee Bucks teetering on the brink of a third straight first-round playoff exit, the future of Giannis Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee suddenly feels fragile — again. And no team is better positioned to pounce than the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Proposed Trade
Thunder receive:
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Giannis Antetokounmpo
Bucks receive:
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Isaiah Hartenstein
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Alex Caruso
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Nikola Topić
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Seven (!) first-round picks
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2025 (via Heat)
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2025 (Clippers swap)
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2025 (via 76ers)
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2026 (via Jazz)
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2026 (own)
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2027 (via Nuggets)
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2029 (via Nuggets)
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Note: Deal would need to wait until June 22 due to Alex Caruso’s contract status.
Why It Makes Sense for the Thunder
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They don’t need Giannis — but they’re one of the few teams that could afford him without breaking the core.
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The Thunder already own the NBA's best record and swept the Grizzlies in the first round.
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They have a historic draft pick stockpile from previous trades (Paul George, Chris Paul, etc.).
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Adding Giannis to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams could create a dynasty — immediately.
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Even after a mega-trade, OKC would still retain multiple future picks.
Why the Bucks Might Say Yes
If Giannis asks out or Milwaukee opts to rebuild:
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This haul of seven first-round picks would be unprecedented, and most of them are in the next two drafts — perfect for a fast rebuild.
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Hartenstein and Caruso are long-term assets or could be flipped later for more picks.
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Nikola Topić — a 2024 lottery pick — brings upside at a position of need.
The Bucks mortgaged much of their future for the Lillard deal. This trade restocks their cupboard in one swoop and keeps them competitive while rebuilding.
The Bottom Line
This trade would be massive. It’s speculative for now, but if Giannis requests a trade, Oklahoma City is the most realistic and powerful suitor. They don’t have to do it — they’re already a contender — but if they want to go from great to generational, this is the move.
Should the Thunder make this deal if they win the title without Giannis — or does that success make it unnecessary?
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