Rumors grow around potential trades for two of the league's biggest stars.
Recent NBA rumors suggest that two of the league’s top stars, Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat and Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks, are emerging as potential trade candidates, according to NBA insider Marc Stein.
Butler, who holds a $53 million player option for the 2025-26 season, could opt out and test free agency as early as next summer. This uncertainty has sparked interest from multiple NBA executives, who view Butler as a possible trade target in the near future.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s name has also come up, though Stein notes that this is more speculative, driven by teams hoping for a scenario where the Bucks falter, leading the two-time MVP to seek an exit.
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Giannis Antetokounmpo signed a three-year, $186 million contract extension last season, securing his place with the Milwaukee Bucks for at least two more years. The deal also includes a $62.8 million player option for the 2027-28 season.
Despite his extension, speculation around Antetokounmpo’s future has persisted since Milwaukee’s 2021 championship run. The Bucks have struggled to get past the second round in three playoff attempts, fueling ongoing doubts about his long-term commitment to the team.
Jimmy Butler’s situation is more uncertain. The six-time All-Star has reportedly declined to extend his contract with the Miami Heat before his 2025-26 player option, according to Shams Charania in a June report from The Athletic.
Butler’s decision not to commit to the Heat or any other team puts Miami in a position where a trade would yield less value. However, Charania notes that the Heat currently have no plans to entertain trade talks for Butler.
For teams eyeing Butler, his refusal to extend his deal and his injury history pose significant risks. Still, the possibility of a trade remains a topic of interest among NBA executives, even if it would likely be for a short-term addition.
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