Epic 3-party trading plan: Antetokounmpo goes to the Spurs, the Bucks kill two birds with one stone, the Pelicans start rebuilding

When I woke up early in the morning, there was a new update on Antetokounmpo's transaction rumors! The well-known reporter Shams brought a big news: Antetokounmpo did not make it clear to the outside world that he would definitely stay in the team during the offseason, but chose to postpone making the final decision! Shams revealed that according to the information he has, the Bucks management has indeed communicated with Antetokounmpo and promised to give him more offensive control and ball rights in the new season, allowing him to lead the team's offense.

However, this promise did not seem to have completely touched Antetokounmpo. Looking back at this year's playoffs, Antetokounmpo already controlled a lot of ball rights during Lillard's injury, and the data was extremely impressive among the stars in the playoffs. But even so, the Bucks still failed to cross the Pacers. Now the team has limited room for reinforcement. Even if Antetokounmpo performs well, it may be difficult for the Bucks to go further in the playoffs.

This situation destined that Antetokounmpo's trading rumors will become a topic of popularity during the offseason, and continues to attract the attention of fans and media. Although there are constant speculations about Antetokounmpo leaving the Bucks, there is always a lack of substantial trading plans to support these rumors. Among all the trading discussions, the Spurs are most closely connected with Antetokounmpo. The Spurs have two potential superstars, Vinban Yama and Fox, and hold a large number of draft picks. They are regarded by many as Antetokounmpo's ideal next home.

Based on this background, the US media "Open-Air Stand" proposed a three-party transaction plan, which aims to send Antetokounmpo to the Spurs without putting the Bucks in the dilemma of complete reconstruction. If Zion Williamson can join Milwaukee, the Bucks may still have a chance to build a competitive team.

Potential deal details are revealed

San Antonio Spurs gained: Antetokounmpo

Milwaukee Bucks get: Zion Williamson, Kelden Johnson, 2025 second pick, recycling its own 2027 first-round pick

New Orleans Pelicans get: Devin Wassel, Jeremy Sohan, 2027 first-round pick (from the Hawks), 2029 second-round pick

Once this deal is reached, the pattern of the Western Conference may be reshaped. At the same time, it is expected to inject new vitality into the Bucks, preventing the team from becoming a bottom in the East, and helping it embark on the road to reconstruction around the new core.

Spurs: The new "big three" is about to emerge

If Antetokounmpo joins the Spurs, he will form a very deterrent "big three" in the league with Fox and Vinban Yama. After partnering with Vinban Yama and Fox, Antetokounmpo no longer needs to take too much responsibility like he did when he was with the Bucks, and the defensive pressure will be greatly reduced. Antetokounmpo's all-roundness is unique. From dribbling through halftime to guarding the basket, he has been a key cornerstone of the team's success during his time with the Bucks. Last season, he averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds and 6.5 assists per game, and his data was amazing. But in the Spurs, he no longer needs to take on such a big bag. Fox is responsible for organizing the offense, Vinban Yama takes on the heavy responsibility of defensiveness, and can also improve the team's space with long shots on the outside, while Antetokounmpo is more free to show dominance at low posts, mid-range or at the basket. With Antetokounmpo's use rate of ball rights lower, the Spurs may be able to keep him in a better physical condition in the playoffs, and his rich experience in winning the championship will also play a key role in the Spurs' success.

Bucks: Zion embarks on a new journey

For the Milwaukee Bucks, this deal is of great significance. Although they had to part ways with the leading star Antetokounmpo, they also welcomed another star, which is expected to adjust the lineup. The arrival of Zion Williamson does not mean that the Bucks will start a long period of reconstruction, but will ensure that the team remains competitive. Williamson has been controversial, many of which are caused by himself. But people often ignore his dominance on the field when he is healthy. The 24-year-old Pelicans forward is one of the most talented players in the league. Last season, he averaged 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds and 5.6 assists per game, with a shooting percentage of 56.7%, which is a valuable asset to any team.

In addition to Williamson, the Bucks will also get Spurs forward Kelden Johnson. The 25-year-old has great potential, but unfortunately, due to the reduction in playing time, his performance has declined this season, averaging 12.7 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. But obviously, he has the ability to do better after getting enough ball rights. Therefore, joining the Bucks may be a great opportunity for him to revive his career. In addition, the Bucks also won the Spurs' valuable second overall pick this year. They are expected to choose talented young point guard Dylan Harper, who is both focused on the present and plan for the future, which can be said to kill two birds with one stone.

Pelicans: The reconstruction plan is progressing steadily

New Orleans Pelicans are in a difficult situation. After several attempts to form a playoff lineup, the team is likely to choose to trade Williamson to start reconstruction as an opportunity. This deal also has many benefits for the Pelicans. Getting Devin Vassel and Jeremy Sohan is undoubtedly a good harvest. Vassel has made significant progress over the past two seasons, with the 24-year-old averaged 16.3 points per game, shooting 44.3% from the field and 36.8% from three-pointers during his time as Spurs. Sohan is a defensive player with excellent rebounding skills. Although he is not tall, he can contribute 11.4 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, which is remarkable. In addition to these two young players, New Orleans also won the 2027 first-round draft pick and the 2029 second-round draft pick. These assets will provide more bargaining chips for the Pelicans' future trading and help the team's reconstruction process.

The right to decide, Antetokounmpo holds all the rumors about Antetokounmpo's transactions ultimately depends on whether he considers a transfer in the offseason.. Although he mentioned his favorite destination, the latest news also shows that he may not leave Milwaukee in the end. Antetokounmpo is eager to lead the Bucks to the finals again, and this determination is moving. Of course, all the rumors about Antetokounmpo's transaction could happen before he officially makes his decision.

However, from the perspective of team adaptability and development prospects, Antetokounmpo's joining a team like the Spurs or the Rockets may be a better choice. The Spurs, especially, have better offensive space. They failed to make the playoffs last season. If Antetokounmpo joins and leads the Spurs to rise, it will undoubtedly be more convincing. The Rockets lack offensive space and the team lacks three-point shooters, which seems not suitable for Antetokounmpo's style of playing. I wonder what all the fans think about this?