Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Gives Bucks A Unique Opportunity To Tank
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- Sports Money Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Gives Bucks A Unique Opportunity To Tank By Bryan Toporek,
- Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights.
- MIAMI, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 29: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks and Tyler Herro #14 of the Miami Heat look on during the second quarter at American Airlines Arena on December 29, 2020 in Miami, Florida.
Sports Money Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Gives Bucks A Unique Opportunity To Tank By Bryan Toporek,
Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Bryan Toporek covers the NBA for Forbes Sports.Follow Author Jun 23, 2026, 11:04am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Summary The NBA's long-running Giannis Antetokounmpo trade saga concluded with his move to the Miami Heat. The Milwaukee Bucks received a significant package including Tyler Herro, Kel'el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakučionis, the 2026 No. 13 pick, unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, and a 2030 pick swap. While not immediate contenders, the Bucks are uniquely positioned to exploit the NBA's new anti-tanking rules. Having already traded away most of their future draft picks until 2031, they can deliberately rebuild without the usual penalties of the new lottery system, potentially even devaluing their traded picks. The team should further tear down by trading Herro and veterans like Myles Turner and Kyle Kuzma for more assets. They could also absorb unwanted contracts for additional draft capital, accelerating their path back to championship contention.
MIAMI, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 29: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks and Tyler Herro #14 of the Miami Heat look on during the second quarter at American Airlines Arena on December 29, 2020 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)Getty ImagesOne of the NBA's most drawn-out trade sagas mercifully came to an end Monday night. Giannis Antetokounmpo is heading to the Miami Heat.