The Chicago Bulls could be among those who benefit most from what appears to be an imminent Giannis Antetokounmpo trade. The Milwaukee Bucks star has once again become a recurring topic in the NBA world amid a rough season.
The 2021 NBA champion and his agent reportedly met with the Milwaukee Bucks to discuss the player's future. While he didn't request a trade, they talked about whether it was better for Antetokounmpo to stay in Milwaukee or try his hand with a different team.
A resolution was expected in the following weeks, but nothing happened, and Antetokounmpo returned to the team, set to help it compete for a playoff spot. ESPN insider Shams Charania reported on Wednesday that the two-time NBA MVP was ready for a new beginning, adding that the Bucks were listening to offers for their star.
The trade could happen ahead of the trade deadline or during the offseason, with Antetokounmpo drawing a lot of interest.
Bulls could end up winning in the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade
Months after they reportedly blew a solid chance to land Antetokounmpo, the Chicago Bulls could have another shot at one of the best players in the association. They have more than one path to come out victorious in this situation.
They have multiple players on expiring contracts. Those players could help the Bulls enter a potential trade for Antetokounmpo as a third team. Nikola Vucevic ($21.48 million), Zach Collins ($18.08 million), Kevin Huerter ($17.99 million), Jevon Carter ($6.81 million) and Dalen Terry ($5.40 million) are all on expiring contracts, in addition to Coby White ($12.89 million) and Ayo Dosunmu ($7.52 million), the most popular trade chips on the Bulls roster.
A move including any of these players could give the Bulls more draft capital or veterans who can elevate the team's level. The Golden State Warriors, the Miami Heat, and the Minnesota Timberwolves were mentioned as potential landing spots for Antetokounmpo, which could benefit the Bulls.
On the other hand, they could go all-in for Antetokounmpo and fix their mistake from the offseason. Chicago has a protected first-rounder in 2026, and three first-round picks until 2028. They also have Matas Buzelis, who was dubbed as untouchable alongside Josh Giddey.
However, the opportunity of pairing up Giddey and Antetokounmpo could make the Bulls' front office change its mind. Then again, considering the team we are talking about, they could still pass up on their best chance to acquire a franchise-altering player.