Durant's name has swirled through the rumor mill for a while now, much to his initial surprise. When Phoenix cut ties with former coach Mike Budenolzer upon completion of its colossally disappointing (and wildly expensive) campaign, ESPN's Shams Charania relayed that the club "is expected to engage in trade discussions involving Durant."

Milwaukee signed Antetokounmpo to a three-year, $175 million extension in October 2023. Antetokounmpo led the Bucks to the 2021 championship against the Phoenix Suns. However, Milwaukee has struggled in the postseason since then.

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo was named as a finalist for the 2024-25 NBA Most Valuable Player award on April 20.