Report: Antetokounmpo Nearly Joined Brooklyn in Stalled Trade Talks

Giannis Antetokounmpo came close to being traded to the Brooklyn Nets, according to a report in the United States. Scoop B Robinson said Brooklyn and Milwaukee had already reached a basic agreement last season on a deal that could have sent the Greek superstar to the Nets, and the talks had advanced to a serious stage before collapsing near the finish line.

The report did not identify the players Milwaukee would have received, but said the teams had already built a trade framework. U.S. estimates suggested Brooklyn would likely have had to give up part of its young core, including Ben Saraf and Danny Wolf, along with draft picks, to land a player of Antetokounmpo’s stature.

The report also said one concern for the Nets was the possible need to clear roster spots for Giannis’ brothers, Thanasis and Alex Antetokounmpo. Those issues, along with additional basketball and organizational considerations, slowed the negotiations and prevented the move from becoming official.

If the trade had gone through, Antetokounmpo would have become the face of Brooklyn’s rebuild and one of the biggest acquisitions in franchise history. He is set to earn $58.5 million next season, and his contract includes a $62.8 million player option for 2027/28. If he declines it, he could become a free agent in the summer of 2027.