Portland’s Giannis Pursuit Could Complicate Deni Avdija’s Future Deal

Portland’s possible role in the Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes could trigger a major NBA trade and affect Deni Avdija’s next contract. According to the report, Antetokounmpo is unlikely to start next season in Milwaukee, and Portland may become the team that helps determine where he lands, because the Trail Blazers hold Milwaukee’s 2028 to 2030 draft picks.

The article says Antetokounmpo currently appears more likely to stay in the Eastern Conference, with Boston and Miami seen as the leading candidates. If the Bucks begin a rebuild, Portland could benefit from high-value picks and young players. Shadeon Sharpe, 23, is described as a strong offensive prospect after averaging 20.8 points per game this season, even if he was quiet in the playoffs.

The most realistic trade option discussed is Jaylen Brown of Boston. He would be a major basketball upgrade for Portland and, on paper, could fit alongside Avdija and Damian Lillard as a trio that can score, defend, and possibly push the Blazers toward 50 wins. But Brown’s contract is a major obstacle, with salary above $60 million in both 2027/28 and 2028/29.

That matters for Avdija, whose deal ends in 2027/28 and may be extended long term. The Blazers would also have to account for future money owed to Jeremy Grant, Sharpe, Donovan Clingan, and Scott Henderson, which could sharply reduce salary-cap flexibility. Miami’s offer is seen as less attractive, while Minnesota has also entered the race with Julius Randle and Naz Reid as possible trade pieces. Even so, the report says Portland’s best basketball option is Brown, though the financial cost could damage its maneuverability.