The 2024-25 Oklahoma City Thunder are entering the season as major title contenders thanks to their superstar core of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren. After reaching the second round of the playoffs last year, the Thunder have high expectations but could make a major splash this summer by acquiring two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo in one of the biggest trades in NBA history and we grade the trade for both teams in this breakdown.
Mock Trade Details
Oklahoma City Thunder: Giannis Antetokounmpo
Milwaukee Bucks Receive: Jalen Williams, Isaiah Hartenstein, Nikola Topic, 2025 First-Round Pick (MIA), 2025 First-Round Pick (PHI), 2027 First-Round Pick (DEN), 2030 First-Round Pick (OKC)
OKC Thunder Create A Superteam And Become Title-Favorites
Acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo would instantly transform the Oklahoma City Thunder from playoff contenders to title favorites. Giannis, a two-time MVP and former Defensive Player of the Year brings an all-around game that would complement the Thunder’s superstars, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren. Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 31.4 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game last season while leading OKC to a second-round playoff appearance, and Holmgren is poised to become a dominant defensive force. Pairing these two with Antetokounmpo’s elite production, including 30.4 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game in 2023-24, would give OKC an unmatched inside-outside threat.
Adding Giannis’ ability to defend all five positions would also elevate Oklahoma City’s defense to one of the best in the league. Holmgren’s shot-blocking and agility, along with Giannis’ perimeter and paint defense, would form a formidable frontcourt that could shut down opposing teams. The offensive dynamic between Giannis and Gilgeous-Alexander, both elite drivers and facilitators, would overwhelm most defenses. The addition of a second perennial MVP candidate would make the Thunder instant favorites to win the Western Conference and compete for multiple championships.
For a franchise that has steadily built its young core, this trade accelerates the Thunder’s timeline for contention without sacrificing foundational pieces like Shai or Holmgren. With a superstar of Giannis’ caliber, the Thunder would not only be equipped for a deep playoff run but could be the dominant team in the West for years. The fit between Giannis’ high-IQ game and OKC’s versatile, positionless style promises both immediate and long-term success.
Milwaukee Bucks Receive A Monster Trade Return
The Milwaukee Bucks would be forced to make the painful decision to trade Giannis in this scenario, but the return from Oklahoma City would position them to stay competitive while focusing on a long-term rebuild. Jalen Williams, a standout player who finished fourth in Most Improved Player rankings, has shown potential as a future All-Star with his versatility and two-way play. In his second season, Williams averaged 19.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, shooting 54.0% from the field. His size and length at 6’6” make him a perfect building block for Milwaukee’s future. Additionally, Nikola Topic, an overseas talent with a high ceiling, gives the Bucks another dynamic guard to develop.
The Bucks would also gain significant flexibility and assets with four first-round picks spread across the next decade. Picks from Miami, Philadelphia, Denver, and OKC offer a mix of potentially high selections, especially if any of those teams falter in the future. These picks provide Milwaukee with the capital to either draft top-tier talent or engage in further trades to retool their roster around younger stars. The addition of Isaiah Hartenstein, a solid backup center known for his rebounding (8.3 RPG in 2023-24) and defensive presence, would help stabilize Milwaukee’s frontcourt, even if he is more of a role player in the grand scheme.
Losing a generational talent like Giannis is always a tough blow, but Milwaukee can take solace in the significant return in case the superstar player decides he doesn’t want to play with Damian Lillard anymore. Rebuilding around Jalen Williams and the haul of picks could allow the Bucks to create a new contender, especially given the financial flexibility they would gain with Giannis off the books.
What Grade Should This Trade Get?
Oklahoma City Thunder: A
For the Oklahoma City Thunder, this trade deserves an A grade. They manage to retain their two most important players, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, while adding one of the best players in the league. The price of losing Jalen Williams and multiple first-round picks is steep, but when you can bring in a talent like Giannis, who is still in his prime and coming off a season where he finished fourth in MVP voting (behind SGA who finished second), it’s a no-brainer. The Thunder are set up for success with this move and would have a legitimate shot at competing for championships for years to come.
Milwaukee Bucks: B
For the Milwaukee Bucks, this trade earns a B. While they lose a generational talent in Giannis, the return is substantial enough to keep them competitive while also setting them up for a future rebuild. Jalen Williams has star potential, and the plethora of draft picks allows the Bucks to be flexible moving forward. However, there’s always risk involved when trading a superstar. The Bucks must hit on those draft picks and develop their young talent effectively to avoid years of mediocrity. Still, given the circumstances, this is a respectable return for Milwaukee as they look toward the next phase of their franchise.
