The idea of the Milwaukee Bucks trading in-season this year Giannis Antetokounmpo might sound unlikely, but itâs not unrealistic. TWSN writer Steve Bradshaw recently outlined a blockbuster trade that would send the two-time MVP to the Orlando Magic, forming one of the most physically imposing frontcourts in basketball with Paolo Banchero.
The Case for a Blockbuster
Bradshawâs proposal sends Franz Wagner, Goga Bitadze, Anthony Black, and two first-round picks (2026 and 2032) to Milwaukee in exchange for Antetokounmpo. On paper, itâs a steep price â but itâs also what it would take to acquire one of the top players in the world.
For Milwaukee, the logic is straightforward: preserve long-term flexibility before their championship window closes. Giannis is 30 years old and under contract through 2028â29 on a three-year, $175 million deal, per Spotrac. If the Bucks believe their roster has plateaued, now could be the time to pivot while still maximizing his value.
And for Orlando, this trade transforms a promising young core into an instant contender without sacrificing its foundation.
Giannis + Paolo: A Frontcourt Built to Punish
Pairing Antetokounmpo with Banchero gives Orlando a combination of power, length, and skill that few teams could handle.
Both players dominate through contact. Giannis currently leads the league with 10.6 free-throw attempts per game, while Banchero ranks among the best under 25 at 8.4 per game. Their ability to draw fouls and dictate tempo would force opposing defenses to collapse, creating open looks for shooters like Jalen Suggs and Desmond Bane.
Through the first three games of the 2025â26 season, Banchero is averaging 19.7 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 7.0 free throws made per game while shooting 34.0% from the field and 75.0% at the line. His scoring efficiency has been streaky early, but his physicality continues to fuel Orlandoâs offense.
Meanwhile, Antetokounmpo has opened the season averaging 34.0 points, 17.0 rebounds, and 6.0 assists on 62.9% shooting, including a 40-point, 20-rebound performance â a reminder of how unstoppable he remains around the rim.
Last season, the Magic ranked bottom 10 in points in the paint, while Milwaukee was bottom four â ahead of only the Nets, Suns, and Celtics. Pairing these two together could instantly vault Orlando into the top 10 in paint production, reshaping their half-court offense and unlocking another level of frontcourt dominance.
Defensively, the fit is just as natural. Giannisâs versatility allows him to guard five positions, while Bancheroâs rebounding and size provide flexibility to switch or protect the rim. With perimeter defenders like Suggs and Jonathan Isaac behind them, the Magic could build one of the leagueâs most balanced two-way lineups.
A Florida Connection Worth Watching
Thereâs already a quiet connection between Antetokounmpo and Orlando. During an offseason Q&A on X (formerly Twitter), Giannis was asked which city made him happiest to visit. His reply: âFlorida cities.â
Itâs a subtle answer but one that could carry weight. The Magicâs front office â led by Jeff Weltman and John Hammond â are the same executives who drafted Giannis to Milwaukee 12 years ago. Their familiarity, combined with Orlandoâs rising young core and Floridaâs no state income tax, makes it a plausible destination if he ever seeks a new chapter.
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