REPORT: Knicks Front Office Has Been Monitoring Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Situation in Milwaukee Long Before the Offseason Ever Started

The New York Knicks have made it clear: they are not content with being a feel-good playoff story. After reaching their first Eastern Conference Finals in over two decades, the team’s front office, led by President Leon Rose, has pivoted toward an even bigger objective—bringing a generational superstar to Madison Square Garden. And according to multiple league sources, the Knicks have been monitoring Giannis Antetokounmpo’s situation in Milwaukee with increasing intensity.

While the Bucks continue to paint a picture of stability around their franchise cornerstone, insiders suggest that all may not be as secure as it seems. And the Knicks—patient, deliberate, but opportunistic—are quietly waiting in the wings. “It is my understanding that Leon Rose and company have been monitoring Giannis Antetokounmpo’s situation in Milwaukee very closely, even before the offseason started,” said one league insider familiar with the Knicks’ internal strategy. “Many around the league believe the Knicks are interested in star hunting, and while that opportunity hasn’t popped up yet, I certainly believe it’s in the cards if the right situation presents itself.”

That “right situation” could very well be centered around the two-time MVP and 2021 NBA champion, whose future in Milwaukee is starting to raise eyebrows—despite a massive contract extension and seemingly strong ties to the city.

The Bucks flamed out early in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, falling short of expectations in the first round despite a healthy Giannis, Damian Lillard, and Khris Middleton. That exit only served to amplify questions about whether the franchise can continue to build a contender around Antetokounmpo as he enters the latter half of his prime. At 30 years old, he has made it no secret in past interviews that his number one priority is winning more championships, and that loyalty will always come second to competitiveness.

“I want to win. I want to compete for championships. As long as we’re aligned on that goal, I’m here,” Giannis said in a 2023 interview. “But if I ever feel like that’s not the direction we’re heading, then we’ll have to reevaluate.”

That quote has lingered in the minds of executives across the league—and none more than the ones in New York.

The Knicks’ interest in Giannis is more than wishful thinking. It’s part of a long-term plan to strike when the time is right. Since Rose took over in 2020, the Knicks have been methodical with their assets. They’ve accumulated draft picks, developed young talent, and maintained cap flexibility without rushing into reckless blockbuster trades.

Their most recent moves show a franchise ready to make the leap. The extension for Mikal Bridges signaled that the Knicks believe they’re close. Jalen Brunson has emerged as a top-tier point guard. Julius Randle remains a strong contributor when healthy. The supporting cast of Josh Hart, Donte DiVincenzo, and OG Anunoby has given the team its most versatile two-way core in years. Still, there’s a sense among those in and around the organization that this version of the Knicks—while formidable—is still missing that one transcendent player to elevate them into perennial championship contention.

Giannis could be that player.

New York’s market, media appeal, and growing culture of accountability under head coach Tom Thibodeau would certainly appeal to someone like Antetokounmpo, who has always embraced high standards and pressure-packed environments. The Knicks also have the assets to make a compelling trade package if the Bucks were ever forced to entertain offers. RJ Barrett, Quentin Grimes, multiple first-round picks, and expiring contracts could form the foundation of a deal—though, of course, any serious negotiation would require Giannis making it clear to Milwaukee that he intends to explore other options.

For now, there’s been no such demand. The Bucks front office, led by GM Jon Horst, has remained committed to building around their star, adding veterans like Lillard and keeping Middleton in the fold. But the margin for error is razor-thin. Another early exit, another coaching change, or even a small sign of discontent from Giannis could change the equation.

The Knicks aren’t betting on Giannis becoming available—they’re simply preparing in case he does.

“Leon [Rose] is always looking ahead,” said a former league executive. “He’s not someone who gets caught off guard. He’s built that team to be ready if a star becomes disgruntled, and Giannis is a player he’s quietly admired for years. Don’t think for a second that they wouldn’t move heaven and earth to get him.”

That kind of planning has become the hallmark of this Knicks regime. They waited for the right moment to pounce on Jalen Brunson. They waited for the Mikal Bridges situation to unfold in Brooklyn. They didn’t overextend themselves on Donovan Mitchell or Zach LaVine, preferring instead to remain flexible. Now, they’re waiting again.

And Giannis isn’t the only player on their radar. Names like Joel Embiid, Devin Booker, and Karl-Anthony Towns have all surfaced in trade speculation over the past two years. But none carry the combination of pedigree, leadership, and physical dominance that Giannis does.

There’s also the broader league context to consider. The NBA is entering a new era of player movement, one where even supermax deals and title rings aren’t enough to keep stars locked in. Luka Dončić, Anthony Edwards, and even Jayson Tatum are all being quietly monitored by other front offices as teams prepare for the next wave of discontent. In this landscape, the Knicks want to be at the front of the line—not playing catch-up.

As of now, Milwaukee retains control of the situation. Giannis is under contract through the 2026-27 season, with a player option for 2027-28. But we’ve seen this script before: a star grows restless, signals his intentions, and forces a deal to a preferred destination. The Knicks want to be that destination.

They’ve built a competitive team, stockpiled assets, and cultivated an identity that players want to be a part of. But more than anything, they’ve put themselves in position to strike when the opportunity comes. For Giannis Antetokounmpo, that opportunity might not come today or tomorrow—but the Knicks will be ready.

And if it does?

New York City just might witness the biggest superstar acquisition since Patrick Ewing was drafted four decades ago.

In a league where fortunes can shift with a single decision, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: the Knicks are watching. Closely. Quietly. And if the Giannis window cracks open—even just a little—Leon Rose is ready to kick the door down.