NBA Rumors: Knicks Shift Focus to Bridges as Giannis Stays in Milwaukee—for Now

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by Cristian Andal

Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Photo: Getty Images.

The New York Knicks are doubling down on their current core after recent developments made a trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo unlikely in the near term.

With no indication that Antetokounmpo will seek a move from the Milwaukee Bucks ahead of the 2025–26 season, New York proceeded with a long-term commitment to Mikal Bridges, inking him to a four-year, $150 million contract extension. The deal includes a player option for the 2029–30 season, along with a trade kicker, per ESPN’s Shams Charania. Under league rules, Bridges cannot be traded for six months following the extension.

This signals a shift in the Knicks' strategy. The team had been monitoring Antetokounmpo’s situation closely amid earlier rumors that he might consider exploring options outside Milwaukee. However, those murmurs have cooled in recent weeks, leading New York to prioritize internal stability.

Bridges, acquired in a significant draft-night trade, is viewed by the Knicks’ front office as a key building block. Rather than wait on an uncertain superstar shakeup, the franchise has chosen to invest in a player who fits seamlessly into their system and timeline.

Photo: Milwaukee Bucks.

Meanwhile, the Bucks have responded to their disappointing first-round playoff loss to Indiana by retooling around their two-time MVP. Milwaukee parted ways with Damian Lillard in a surprise cap-saving move and brought in new faces like Myles Turner and Gary Harris while retaining contributors like Bobby Portis and Kevin Porter Jr. Pat Connaughton was traded to Charlotte, signaling a clear intent to reshape the roster around Antetokounmpo without going into a full rebuild.

Despite early offseason speculation, Bucks executives have expressed confidence that their franchise centerpiece remains committed. One team official, speaking to Spotrac’s Keith Smith, noted that the organization is “in a good place” with Antetokounmpo and believes the team has done well to adjust quickly.

Antetokounmpo is currently under contract through at least the 2026–27 season after signing a three-year extension in 2023. His $54.1 million salary this year underscores his elite status—and why teams like the Knicks have long hoped for a chance to lure him away.

For now, that opportunity seems off the table. But with Bridges locked in and financial flexibility preserved, the Knicks have positioned themselves to remain competitive—and ready—should another star become available.