Knicks now favored in race for Antetokounmpo, leaving hopes for Greek Freak's move to New York City alive

Bookmakers predictively favor the New York Knicks for securing superstar center Giannis Antetokounmpo, despite any logistical challenges that may arise.

, and ASMedia

2025 September 1 . 9:57 AM

2 min read

New York Knicks are reportedly favored to secure the acquisition of basketball superstar Giannis... — New York Knicks are reportedly favored to secure the acquisition of basketball superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, also known as the Greek Freak.

Knicks now favored in race for Antetokounmpo, leaving hopes for Greek Freak's move to New York City alive

The NBA world continues to buzz with speculation about a potential trade for two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, with the New York Knicks being labeled as favorites by bookies to acquire the Greek Freak from the Milwaukee Bucks [3][4]. However, as of late August 2025, there are no active or formal trade negotiations between the two teams [1][5].

Giannis Antetokounmpo, a nine-time All-Star and a consistent top-five MVP candidate, has two years and a player option remaining on his contract, with a salary of $58 million for the next year [7]. In his latest campaign with the Bucks, Antetokounmpo averaged an impressive 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 blocks per game [8].

The Bucks are seen as unlikely title contenders this year, which could motivate a trade if their performance does not improve [1][2]. Although Giannis has not officially requested a trade from Milwaukee, there is speculation that a blockbuster deal could take place at the NBA trade deadline if the team underperforms [1][2].

The Knicks, having recently changed head coaches and aiming to build on their recent success, are considered a plausible destination should Giannis become available [3][4]. However, it's important to note that acquiring Antetokounmpo would require a considerable trade package, including another player and draft picks [6]. Moreover, a trade for Antetokounmpo would need to adjust salaries and involve draft picks to make the deal work [6].

Karl-Anthony Towns, an All-Star starter, was exposed during the Knicks' playoffs, leaving a potential gap that Antetokounmpo could help fill if he were to join the team [9]. Despite the ongoing uncertainty, no finalized negotiations have started between the Knicks and Bucks as of now [4][5].

Mikal Bridges, a key player for the Knicks, is not tradeable for the next six months due to his contract extension [10]. The Knicks made the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in a quarter century, but lost to the Indiana Pacers in six games [11]. Following their loss, the head coach of the Knicks, Tom Thibodeau, was fired [12].

In conclusion, while the potential trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo remains a hot topic, no active negotiations are currently taking place between the New York Knicks and the Milwaukee Bucks. The situation remains fluid, with the Knicks being one of the leading contenders to pursue him should he become available. However, as of now, no finalized negotiations have started, and the Knicks must navigate the upcoming season without the certainty of acquiring Antetokounmpo.

References: [1] James Edwards III, The Athletic [2] SportsBetting.ag [3] ESPN [4] NBA.com [5] Milwaukee Journal Sentinel [6] Bleacher Report [7] Spotrac.com [8] Basketball-Reference.com [9] New York Post [10] NBA.com [11] NBA.com [12] ESPN