Report: Portland Pulls Back From Giannis Antetokounmpo Chase

Reports in the United States say Portland is no longer in the race to acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo, despite earlier being one of the leading candidates because it controls several future Milwaukee draft picks. According to Marc Stein, the Trail Blazers, the team of Israeli forward Deni Avdija, were willing before February's trade deadline to give up four first-round picks even without a guarantee that Antetokounmpo would sign an extension.

Stein said the current belief is that Portland is no longer prepared to go that far after being told the chances of getting such a commitment are low. That retreat has strengthened the view that Miami and Boston are now the two main contenders. U.S. reports currently consider the Heat the favorites.

Stein also reported that Milwaukee has recently been acting as if it expects to keep the No. 13 pick in the draft, in addition to the No. 10 pick it already holds. The No. 13 selection currently belongs to Miami and would move to Milwaukee if the blockbuster deal is completed. Miami has already begun additional talks to add shooters in case a move for Antetokounmpo alongside Bam Adebayo becomes reality.

In Boston, meanwhile, tension is rising around persistent rumors of a possible deal sending Jaylen Brown to Milwaukee. A source familiar with the matter said talk of moving Brown to a third team is "too early." Separately, Serbian media say Denver is also hoping to strengthen for next season and may try to sign Bogdan Bogdanovic, Nikola Jokic's close friend from the Serbian national team. Denver believes their proven chemistry could boost its title chances, though Bogdanovic had a modest season with the Los Angeles Clippers, averaging 7.4 points, 2.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game.