Giannis Antetokounmpo’s uncertain future in Milwaukee has been a major topic of discussion during this offseason, especially in relation to Damian Lillard trade talks. Antetokounmpo has made it clear that he’s not interested in signing an extension with the Bucks unless they are committed to winning championships. This has caught the attention of not only Milwaukee but also other teams around the league.
Toronto and Miami were thought to be the frontrunners in the Lillard sweepstakes, with both teams trying to save assets in case Antetokounmpo becomes available. However, it was the Bucks who ultimately made the move for Lillard, acquiring him in a three-team trade that also landed Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton in Portland. The trade sent out All-Star point guard Jrue Holiday, a 2029 first-round pick, and swap rights in 2028 and 2030.
While the Bucks may have suffered a defensive downgrade in giving up Holiday, they gained much-needed offensive firepower to complement Antetokounmpo’s dominance. The team struggled in the half-court offense during the playoffs and lacked secondary scoring options. Lillard brings scoring and playmaking abilities that should greatly benefit Milwaukee.
The trade came as a surprise to many in the NBA, as most of the Lillard trade rumors focused on Toronto’s interest while Portland had little negotiations with Miami. The Bucks quietly pursued Lillard in the background and made a bold move to secure one of the top players in NBA history. They still need to add depth at the guard position behind Lillard, with veteran Cam Payne being mentioned as a potential option.
The inclusion of Phoenix in the three-team trade was not unexpected, as there had been talks of Portland looking to swap Jusuf Nurkić for Ayton. The Suns have been active in making moves to strengthen their roster, even if it means exceeding the luxury tax limits. Phoenix also acquired Jae Crowder and Grayson Allen as part of this mega-deal.
The departure of Ayton from Phoenix is seen as addition by subtraction, and it gives him a fresh start in Portland. Ayton, despite facing criticism, is still considered a talented player with untapped potential. The Blazers could potentially use Ayton as part of a trade package for another player to complement Lillard.
Holiday, on the other hand, could draw interest from multiple teams, although it’s uncertain if he will command a bigger return than Lillard. The Miami Heat have shown interest in Holiday in the past and could consider pursuing him instead. Additionally, the Philadelphia 76ers have expressed interest in Holiday and could potentially be involved in a three-team trade involving James Harden.
It remains to be seen how quickly Portland moves on from Holiday and what kind of return they can get for him. The team took months to assess the market and maximize the return for Lillard, and they are likely to do the same for Holiday. The Blazers will be looking for a deal that gives them the best possible return for their franchise’s greatest player.
In the end, the trade involving Lillard, Holiday, and Ayton has shaken up the NBA landscape and is sure to have significant implications for the upcoming season. The Bucks have made a bold move to bolster their championship aspirations, while the Suns and Blazers are looking to reshape their rosters and compete at the highest level. Only time will tell if these moves pay off for all parties involved.