Jalen Brunson Could Hurt Knicks' Chances of Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade

Knicks' star point guard's ball-dominant style may not fit Giannis' preferences

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The New York Knicks have been linked to potential trade talks for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, but the team's acquisition of Jalen Brunson last offseason could complicate those efforts. Reports suggest Antetokounmpo prefers to play with a supporting cast that allows him to be the primary offensive engine, which may conflict with Brunson's ball-dominant style as the Knicks' lead guard.

Why it matters

Giannis Antetokounmpo is one of the NBA's elite players, and adding him to the Knicks' roster would instantly make them a championship contender. However, the team's commitment to Jalen Brunson as their offensive focal point may not align with Antetokounmpo's preferred playing style, potentially hindering the Knicks' ability to complete a trade for the two-time MVP.

The details

The Knicks were reportedly engaged in trade talks with the Bucks last summer and ahead of the 2023 trade deadline regarding a potential Antetokounmpo deal. While those discussions did not result in a trade, the Knicks are expected to be in the mix again this offseason. However, Brunson's emergence as an All-Star caliber point guard since joining the Knicks last year could be a roadblock. Reports suggest Antetokounmpo prefers to play with supporting cast members who are comfortable playing off the ball, allowing him to be the primary offensive initiator. Brunson's ball-dominant style may not fit that preference, potentially making the Knicks a less attractive destination for the Bucks star.

  • The Knicks were engaged in trade talks with the Bucks last summer ahead of the 2025-26 season.
  • The Knicks were mentioned as a potential suitor for Antetokounmpo again ahead of the 2023 NBA trade deadline.

The players

Giannis Antetokounmpo

A 10-time NBA All-Star and two-time NBA MVP who has spent his entire career with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Jalen Brunson

The Knicks' starting point guard, who has emerged as an All-Star caliber player since joining the team last offseason.

Leon Rose

The president of the New York Knicks, who has overseen the team's roster reshaping in recent years.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Still, some suggest Antetokounmpo doesn't want to play with a ball-dominant lead guard, preferring to be the primary engine driving his team's offense (Holiday and Middleton were comfortable playing without the ball around Antetokounmpo).”

— Eric Pincus, Bleacher Report (Bleacher Report)

What’s next

The Knicks will likely continue to be mentioned as a potential trade destination for Antetokounmpo this offseason, but the team's commitment to Brunson as their lead guard could complicate those efforts.

The takeaway

The Knicks' acquisition of Jalen Brunson last offseason has elevated the team, but it may also create a roadblock in their pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo. Antetokounmpo's reported preference for playing with a supporting cast that allows him to be the primary offensive engine could conflict with Brunson's ball-dominant style, potentially making the Knicks a less attractive destination for the Bucks superstar.