New York Knicks Reportedly Preparing Major Trade Push for Giannis Antetokounmpo, Eye Jason Kidd
Something big may be brewing in the Big Apple. According to longtime NBA insider Gery Woelfel, the New York Knicks are reportedly preparing a “tsunami-type offer” in an ambitious attempt to trade for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. 
The Greek Freak, a two-time MVP and one of the most dominant players of his generation, has long been a dream target for front offices across the league — but the Knicks may be mounting the most aggressive pursuit yet.
The report suggests that New York is not only crafting a massive trade package to tempt the Bucks but is also laying the groundwork to create an environment that would appeal to Giannis personally. As part of this multi-layered strategy, the Knicks have reportedly reached out to the Dallas Mavericks to request permission to speak with head coach Jason Kidd — Giannis’ former coach in Milwaukee and a pivotal figure in his early NBA development.
Kidd coached Antetokounmpo from 2014 to 2018 and is widely credited with helping to unlock the versatile, point-forward style that made Giannis a unique force in the league. The relationship between the two has been publicly praised by both sides in the past. Bringing Kidd back into the fold — potentially as a head coach or in another prominent role — could be a strategic move to make New York more attractive to the Bucks star, who has expressed loyalty to Milwaukee but has also voiced concerns about the team’s long-term competitiveness.
From the Knicks’ perspective, the timing is crucial. After a promising 2024–25 season led by Jalen Brunson and a strong supporting cast, New York is viewed as a legitimate contender in the Eastern Conference. Adding Giannis would elevate the franchise into immediate championship contention, potentially making them favorites to win it all. With a deep pool of assets including multiple first-round draft picks, young players like RJ Barrett and Quentin Grimes, and movable contracts, the Knicks are well-positioned to make a serious offer.
Of course, pulling off such a blockbuster would require more than just assets — it would require Milwaukee’s willingness to entertain the idea of parting ways with their franchise cornerstone. As of now, there’s no concrete indication that the Bucks are ready to engage in trade talks. However, in the modern NBA, superstars have significant influence, and should Giannis signal openness to a move, the landscape could shift quickly.
For Knicks fans, this rumor is both exciting and daunting. A move of this magnitude would shake the NBA to its core — and bring New York closer to ending its decades-long title drought.