The Oklahoma City Thunder have swept the Lakers 4-0 and advanced to the Western Conference Finals. This has sparked speculation about a potential blockbuster trade involving Giannis Antetokounmpo. Jalen Williams’ contract is set to increase significantly next season, and he has been plagued by injuries this year. Meanwhile, the Thunder have discovered capable replacements like Ajay Mitchell during the playoffs. Given these factors, along with the team’s abundant future first-round picks, it’s hard not to imagine Giannis in a Thunder uniform.
According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, Giannis might prefer to stay with an Eastern Conference team to avoid the rising powerhouses of the Thunder and Spurs. At first glance, this seems to rule out OKC and San Antonio. However, it’s unclear if this truly reflects Giannis’ intentions. Even if it does, if the Thunder fail to defend their championship this season and make a full-court press to acquire him, could he resist? One way to avoid the Thunder and Spurs is to join them.
The Thunder are an ideal trade partner for the Bucks. They possess a proven young core. Jalen Williams, 25, averaged 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.6 steals in the 2024-25 championship season, shooting 48.4% from the field and 36.5% from three. He was instrumental in the Thunder’s title run.
However, injuries have plagued Williams this season. He missed the first 19 games, then another 16, and has been sidelined for an extended period without returning. His contract jumps from $6.58 million to $41.5 million next season, giving the Thunder pause. Additionally, the younger and cheaper (around $3 million this season) Mitchell has impressed in the playoffs, averaging 18.8 points, making Williams’ position even more precarious.
If the Thunder decide to move Williams, Giannis would be an excellent target. With Antetokounmpo at power forward, Isaiah Hartenstein (whose contract expires next season with a team option at $2.85 million) could be moved. The Thunder’s frontcourt would then feature Giannis and Chet Holmgren, addressing their only weakness: interior size and strength. Giannis would form a dynamic MVP duo with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, extending the Thunder’s dominance.
Moreover, the Thunder could acquire Giannis without dismantling half the team. Thanks to their treasure trove of first-round picks, they could send out minimal players (Williams, Hartenstein, etc.). This low-cost acquisition is a major advantage over other competitors.
On the other side, the Bucks would be thrilled to receive Williams and a haul of picks. Williams would become their franchise cornerstone, and the picks would provide valuable assets for rebuilding.
The Bucks would likely push for a quick deal, but it depends on the Thunder’s willingness. Williams could still remain in OKC, as the team wants to see how he recovers from injury next season. Will this trade happen? Only time will tell.
