NBA analyst lays out framework for Rockets to acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo

With the NBA offseason fully underway now, Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is a key name to monitor. Following the league's latest blockbuster trade, one analyst isn't ruling out one Western Conference contender still making a trade for the two-time MVP. 

After months of being in rumors, Kevin Durant finds himself on a new team. On Sunday afternoon, the Houston Rockets sent a package headlined by Jalen Green to the Phoenix Suns for the star forward. 

During a recent episode of his "What's Wright" podcast, Nick Wright touched on what the Rockets acquiring KD means for them going after Giannis. He feels they still have more than enough assets to trade for the superstar forward if they want to. Wight's framework for such a deal has them parting with Fred VanVleet, Reed Sheppard, and five first-rounders for the Bucks star. 

"If he were to come available midseason, might have the ability to still trade for Giannis," Wright said of the Rockets. "It's not like by going for Durant they punted on any chance at Giannis." 

— What’s Wright? with Nick Wright (@WhatsWrightShow) June 24, 2025

While this would cut into a large portion of their draft capital, it is still a move worth considering for the Rockets. Pairing KD and Giannis would make Houston an instant title contender, and they'd still have key young talents like Amen Thompson on the roster. 

This framework could also benefit the Bucks as they gear up for a rebuild. Sheppard is a former lottery pick with untapped potential, and landing in Milwaukee would allow him to develop at a faster pace. Also, as a fringe All-Star and former champion, the Bucks could always re-route VanVleet for more assets. Securing five firsts would also give the front office some much-needed draft capital to load the roster with young talent. 

At this point in time, all Giannis trade talk remains hypothetical. He has not requested a trade out of Milwaukee, and the franchise remains committed to building a contender around him.