Nets Expected to Pursue Giannis Antetokounmpo This Summer

Brooklyn's front office has kept flexibility, holding onto assets for a potential blockbuster trade.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:40pm

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The Brooklyn Nets are expected to show interest in signing Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason as the Milwaukee Bucks star's future remains uncertain. The Nets have quietly maintained financial flexibility and draft assets that could be used in a major trade, according to a source. Antetokounmpo will be eligible to sign a four-year, $275 million extension with the Bucks in October, but he could also become a free agent after the 2026-27 season, potentially pushing Milwaukee to explore trade options before then.

Why it matters

Giannis Antetokounmpo is one of the NBA's elite players, and his potential availability would be a major story this offseason. The Nets have been positioning themselves for a move like this, and landing Antetokounmpo would instantly make them a championship contender.

The details

The Nets recently defeated the Bucks 96-90, though Antetokounmpo did not play in that game. His status for the next meeting between the two teams in Milwaukee also remains uncertain. However, the bigger story is what may happen this summer, as the Nets are expected to make calls about Antetokounmpo's availability. The Nets' front office, led by Sean Marks, has kept financial flexibility and held onto draft picks and assets that could be used in a major trade.

  • Antetokounmpo will be eligible to sign a four-year, $275 million extension with the Bucks in October 2023.
  • Antetokounmpo could become a free agent after the 2026-27 season.

The players

Giannis Antetokounmpo

A superstar forward for the Milwaukee Bucks who is averaging 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game this season.

Sean Marks

The general manager of the Brooklyn Nets, who has positioned the team to have the flexibility and assets to potentially acquire a player like Antetokounmpo.

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What’s next

The Bucks will have to decide whether to offer Antetokounmpo a max extension this offseason or explore trade options if he does not commit long-term.

The takeaway

The potential pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo by the Brooklyn Nets highlights the high-stakes game of NBA free agency and the lengths teams will go to acquire elite talent. This story will be one of the biggest storylines of the upcoming offseason.