This trade sends Giannis Antetokounmpo to the New York Knicks in exchange for Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, Mitchell Robinson, and three first-round picks (including two pick swaps). From the Knicks' perspective, acquiring Giannis gives them a top-five player in the NBA and a legitimate superstar to pair with Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. It would significantly raise their ceiling and make them instant title contenders in the East, especially with Giannis' two-way dominance. While the team would lose depth in the wing and frontcourt, the remaining core could still contend with Giannis leading the charge. Although Josh Hart would be a huge hit to morale, it'd be a necessary move to keep the Knicks as title contenders for the next few years.

For the Bucks, this trade keeps them competitive despite losing their franchise player. Mikal Bridges provides elite wing defense and improving shot creation, effectively fitting in as a two-way anchor. Josh Hart brings energy, rebounding, and versatility at both ends, while Mitchell Robinson gives the Bucks a defensive-minded center to patrol the paint and protect the rim—especially important as Brook Lopez regresses in his older age. The incoming trio helps Milwaukee stay playoff-relevant rather than enter a full rebuild, which would be appealing if they want to keep Damian Lillard competing in the 2026-2027 season after he comes back from injury.

The three draft assets included in the deal—Washington’s 2026 first-rounder and two pick swaps (2026 and 2030)—give the Bucks upside for the future, since they own none of their own picks. They can retool around Lillard with strong role players and still plan for the long term if the Knicks falter down the road. Cap-wise, the deal works for both teams, and the Knicks gain a transformative player without breaking salary matching rules. For Milwaukee, this is a rare superstar trade that doesn’t push them into tanking and allows them to remain an Eastern Conference threat.

Knicks Roster: PG: Jalen Brunson, SG: Miles McBride, SF: OG Anunoby, PF: Giannis Antetokounmpo, C: Karl-Anthony Towns Bench: Cam Payne, Landry Shamet, Pacome Dadiet, Precious Achiuwa, Ariel Hukporti

Bucks Roster: PG: Damian Lillard, SG: Mikal Bridges, SF: Josh Hart, PF: Kyle Kuzma, C: Brook Lopez Bench: PG: Kevin Porter Jr., AJ Green, Taurean Prince, Bobby Portis Jr, Mitchell Robinson