Grange: Why Raptors Must Steer Clear of Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade

As the NBA trade deadline approaches on February 5, discussions surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future become increasingly pertinent. The two-time MVP is reportedly on the trade market, sparking interest from various teams, including the Toronto Raptors. History indicates that the Raptors have attempted to acquire Antetokounmpo before, during the brief 2020 offseason.

The 2020 Offseason and Raptors’ Aspirations

The 2020 NBA offseason was unusually brief, following the Lakers’ championship win over the Miami Heat on October 11. The Raptors had initially hoped to leverage their cap space to acquire Antetokounmpo. Despite their efforts, he ultimately signed a five-year extension worth $228 million with the Milwaukee Bucks before the 2020-21 season began.

Current Trade Talks and Raptors’ Involvement

Fast forward to today, Antetokounmpo’s exit from Milwaukee appears imminent. His growing injury concerns and a hefty contract—$54.1 million this season and projected earnings of $58.5 million in 2026-27—complicate trade discussions. The Raptors must consider whether pursuing this superstar is prudent.

Raptors’ Potential Trade Package

To entice the Bucks, any trade conversation would likely begin with Raptors’ standout Scottie Barnes. Analysts indicate that Barnes’ significant trade value positions him as a necessary asset in any negotiations. Opinions from NBA executives suggest:

• “Scottie has the most trade value and should be the ask.”
• “It would have to be picks and Scottie; that’s the only way to make it work.”
• “If you’re Toronto, giving up Scottie means relinquishing a valuable player.”

Assessing the Trade Feasibility

Antetokounmpo remains a dominant player, averaging 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.6 assists in the games he has played this season. However, he is 31 years old and has missed considerable time due to injuries in recent seasons, averaging 15 games missed annually over the last four years.

Pros and Cons of Pursuing Antetokounmpo

Acquiring Antetokounmpo could offer immediate star power for the Raptors but comes with significant risks. Here are a few considerations:

• Antetokounmpo’s past playoff success is undeniable—he was pivotal to the Bucks’ 2021 championship.
• His current contract demands a substantial financial commitment, which could hinder future roster flexibility for the Raptors.
• Trading away young stars like Barnes could deplete the Raptors’ long-term potential.

Comparing Antetokounmpo and Barnes

While Antetokounmpo’s experience and accolades are impressive, Barnes, just 24 years old, has four years left on his contract. Executives highlight the potential upside of keeping Barnes rather than pursuing a lesser deal for Antetokounmpo. As one executive noted, “Is Giannis going to be the better player over those years? I don’t know about that.”

Conclusion: Should the Raptors Make the Move?

The prospect of trading for Giannis Antetokounmpo excites fans and analysts alike, but the implications for the Raptors remain complex. The franchise must weigh immediate championship aspirations against long-term rebuilding efforts. Ultimately, the decision will hinge on whether the Raptors are willing to part with crucial assets like Scottie Barnes while fully understanding the risks at play.