The Milwaukee Bucks never seriously considered trading Giannis Antetokounmpo at the NBA trade deadline—and for good reason. With the offseason approaching, several suitors can now sweeten their offers with additional draft picks, making a potential blockbuster deal far more realistic.

The playoffs have a way of revealing a team's true identity. Some squads look like they're just one superstar away from championship contention, while others are left exposed, realizing they need a serious shakeup. As the first round unfolds, a few surprising teams are beginning to believe that Antetokounmpo could be the missing piece to their title puzzle.

Portland Trail Blazers
First-round result: Lost to San Antonio Spurs 4-1

According to The Oregonian's Bill Oram, the Blazers "are prepared to make a pitch" for Antetokounmpo if he's willing to sign a long-term extension in Portland. Their biggest advantage? Control over Milwaukee's own draft picks. Since trading Damian Lillard to the Bucks in September 2023, Portland holds the rights to Milwaukee's 2029 first-round pick, plus swaps in 2028 and 2030.

However, there are complications. Lillard is expected to return from a ruptured Achilles at age 36 next season, and his on-court fit with Antetokounmpo was already awkward in Milwaukee. Additionally, Deni Avdija led the league in drives this season, creating potential redundancy with Giannis's downhill game.

Atlanta Hawks
First-round status: Trailing New York Knicks 3-2 (Game 6, Thursday 7 p.m. ET)

Back in January, Rich Paul—agent to Hawks forward Jalen Johnson—proposed a Johnson-for-Antetokounmpo trade on his podcast. While nothing materialized, the idea highlights how teams are already imagining Giannis in their uniform.

For basketball fans and gear enthusiasts alike, this playoff season is shaping up to be a pivotal moment. Whether Giannis stays in Milwaukee or moves to a new market, the ripple effects will be felt across the league—and in the jerseys, sneakers, and apparel fans will be eager to wear next season.