The Minnesota Timberwolves may have emerged as a serious player in the Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes, and if recent reports are accurate, they should do everything possible to make a deal happen.
According to Sam Amick and Eric Nehm of The Athletic, the Milwaukee Bucks have interest in what Minnesota can offer should the Timberwolves enter the bidding for Antetokounmpo. The reported framework would send Jaden McDaniels, Naz Reid, Terrence Shannon Jr., the No. 29 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, and Minnesota’s 2033 first-round pick to Milwaukee in exchange for the two-time MVP.
While that is a substantial package, it is also the type of price teams willingly pay when a generational superstar becomes available.
For Minnesota, the appeal is obvious.
Pairing Giannis Antetokounmpo with Anthony Edwards would instantly create one of the most explosive duos in the NBA. Edwards has already established himself as one of the league’s premier young stars, while Antetokounmpo remains among basketball’s most dominant forces. Together, they would give the Timberwolves two elite players capable of taking over games on both ends of the floor.
The fit is particularly intriguing because of the pressure Giannis would take off Edwards. Opposing defenses routinely load up on Edwards during the postseason, forcing the ball out of his hands and daring Minnesota’s supporting cast to beat them. With Antetokounmpo attacking the paint, those defensive strategies become far more difficult to execute.
The Timberwolves would undoubtedly miss McDaniels’ perimeter defense and Reid’s offensive versatility. McDaniels has developed into one of the NBA’s best wing defenders, while Reid has become a fan favorite and one of the league’s most productive reserve big men. Shannon Jr. also showed promising flashes during his rookie campaign.
Still, opportunities to acquire a player of Antetokounmpo’s caliber are exceedingly rare.
From Milwaukee’s perspective, the proposed package offers a respectable foundation should the organization decide to move on from its franchise cornerstone. McDaniels provides an All-Defensive caliber building block, Reid could immediately assume a larger offensive role, and Shannon Jr. adds another young, athletic piece to the roster. The draft capital included would further aid a potential retooling effort.
Ultimately, championship windows do not stay open forever. Minnesota has already proven it can compete near the top of the Western Conference. Adding Giannis would elevate the Timberwolves from contender to legitimate title favorite.
If the opportunity presents itself, Minnesota shouldn’t hesitate.
The Timberwolves should make the call.
