Fresh off another Eastern Conference Finals run, the New York Knicks are preparing for a transformative offseason move. A proposed three-team trade involving the Knicks, Milwaukee Bucks, and Memphis Grizzlies could bring two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo to Madison Square Garden, dramatically altering the NBA’s Eastern Conference landscape.

Milwaukee’s future with Giannis remains uncertain following their recent parting with Damian Lillard, fueling speculation around the star forward’s next destination. Although Giannis has suggested he likely intends to stay, his comments leave an opening for potential trade discussions. The Knicks see an opportunity to build a championship-caliber roster by acquiring Giannis alongside former Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr. through a complex deal also involving Memphis.

How the Knicks Would Build a New Powerhouse in the East

The trade would pair Giannis Antetokounmpo, who averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists during the 2024-25 season, with Jaren Jackson Jr., who contributed 22.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game, alongside current star Jalen Brunson. This combination merges elite scoring, relentless defense, and versatile talent, promising to elevate the Knicks into early favorites for the Eastern Conference title.

Jackson Jr.’s rim protection—averaging 1.5 blocks per game—and his efficient 48.8% shooting would address the Knicks’ defensive deficiencies while providing spacing. Giannis’ ability to increase the team’s pace and power complements the team’s core of Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby under newly appointed head coach Mike Brown. This upgrade signals a seismic shift in ambitions for Madison Square Garden, generating high expectations among fans hungry for postseason success.

While the Knicks would sacrifice roster depth in this deal, their star power would position them as a dominant force in the East. The mix of experience and athleticism, combined with an aggressive playoff mindset from their recent postseason journey, underscores their readiness to compete at the highest level.

Milwaukee Bucks Commit to Rebuilding with Youth and Flexibility

The Milwaukee Bucks would receive a package centered on young talent and future assets which includes Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, Miles McBride, and multiple future draft picks. Bridges, a reliable 3-and-D wing averaging 17.6 points per game with 3.7 assists, provides the Bucks with immediate scoring and defensive consistency. Hart adds versatility and grit, delivering nearly 14 points and close to 10 rebounds per contest, while McBride contributes promising backcourt depth as a young point guard.

This haul represents the Bucks’ clear pivot to a youth-driven rebuild after recent setbacks, notably Damian Lillard’s departure following injury and offseason buyout. By acquiring draft capital—the 2026 first-round pick and additional second-round selections—the Bucks build a foundation for the future, favoring long-term team flexibility over short-term contention with an aging core.

Memphis Grizzlies Look to Karl-Anthony Towns as Their New Franchise Centerpiece

The Grizzlies would receive Karl-Anthony Towns, a consistent All-Star contributor who averaged 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists last season. Towns’ arrival in Memphis fills the void created by Jaren Jackson Jr.’s departure, providing the team a proven star to anchor their frontcourt for years to come.

The first-round pick swap included in the deal is top-4 protected for 2026, mitigating risk for Memphis while aligning with their competitive timeline. Taking on Towns’ contract is a clear statement about the team’s direction, signaling a commitment to reinvigorate their identity and energize fans alongside emerging star Ja Morant.

This move represents a fresh chapter for the Grizzlies, combining veteran scoring with youthful ambition in a rugged market that demands resilience and renewed purpose.

Impact and Momentum Generated by the Three-Team Trade

This proposed trade marks a bold declaration from the Knicks’ front office, sending a message that they intend to compete immediately at the highest level. By acquiring Giannis and Jaren Jackson Jr., New York would instantly join the NBA’s elite conversations, reshaping the balance of power in the Eastern Conference and igniting fervor among fans and analysts alike.

Milwaukee accepts the inevitability of a rebuild, opting to accelerate their timeline with promising players and draft capital instead of extending a faltering core. Memphis seizes an opportunity to upgrade their roster while maintaining competitiveness. In this rare three-team exchange, each franchise benefits from recalibrating their direction.

The Knicks’ gamble on star power over depth is a franchise-defining moment, potentially ushering in a new era at Madison Square Garden. Giannis’ move to New York would reverberate across the league, escalating excitement and pressure on both player and team to translate potential into championships.

Giannis Antetokounmpo Addresses Trade Speculation About His Future

Despite swirling rumors about moves involving Los Angeles and New York, Giannis has maintained a cautiously optimistic stance on his future. His statements confirm his affection for Milwaukee but also acknowledge the uncertainty surrounding his next steps. This candidness fuels anticipation for what could become one of the most impactful trades of the season.