On a similar playing field to the LA Clippers is the Milwaukee Bucks, who lost their way out of a wide-open window in the Eastern Conference. Thus, Giannis Antetokounmpo can relate to the frustration James Harden is going through in a losing season, which explains the recent rumors around the Bucks' franchise centerpiece that LA needs to capitalize on desperately.
Furthermore, Shams Charania reported a major update: Antetokounmpo and his team are discussing which city is best for him. This could be in Milwaukee, still leaving that door open, but also elsewhere, such as the struggling side of Los Angeles that needs a superstar replacement.
Just in: Giannis Antetokounmpo and his agent Alex Saratsis have started conversations with the Milwaukee Bucks about the two-time NBA MVP's future – and discussing whether his best fit is staying or elsewhere, sources tell ESPN. A resolution is expected in the coming weeks. pic.twitter.com/NfrpL2Ffvr
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 3, 2025
Any time now, the Clippers should go all in on facilitation and put forth their best efforts to snag Antetokounmpo's superpowers from the Bucks' hands.
The LA Clippers will need to make prior moves to land Giannis Antetokounmpo
If the LA Clippers show enough willpower, and Giannis Antetokounmpo reciprocates the same level of interest, the Milwaukee Bucks will inform Lawrence Frank that additional work needs to be done to complete a trade for one of the NBA's dominant forces.
As the goal is to stack Antetokounmpo next to James Harden, the first step in the process will be to ship Kawhi Leonard for draft picks. Many teams will have an offer ready immediately, and whoever has the highest bid that meets the Bucks' requirements is where the two-time champion should be sent.
Though this would be a blockbuster deal, the Clippers will need more. This underlines the value of Bogdan Bogdanovic, John Collins, and Derrick Jones Jr., who will significantly matter, as they can lure second-round picks and even a potential-heavy youngster.
Everything meshed together in one proposal to the Bucks, plus Ivica Zubac, who will be the centerpiece on the Clippers' side, should do all of the talking.
Additionally, LA must signal to Antetokounmpo that they do not mind breaking the bank in extension talks, as the reason their long-term payroll is empty and saved was for the moment a megastar requested out.
The Clippers would evidently not regret a dime, given his 2025-26 averages of 30.6 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 6.4 assists, shooting 63.9% from the field and 43.5% from a distance.
That said, Antetokounmpo has not submitted an official request. It could come if the Bucks keep losing, which would be perfect for the Clippers' redemption aspirations, or he may stick as the homegrown phenom Milwaukee raised, with a flip of the switch collectively initiated by his current teammates and coaches.