Timberwolves Eliminated from Giannis Trade Race as Bucks Seek More Assets

The Minnesota Timberwolves have been ruled out of the running for Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo after the franchise informed them on Friday that their asking price has increased substantially since winter negotiations. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Bucks want "even more now than the teams discussed in the winter," effectively ending Minnesota's pursuit of the two-time NBA MVP. The trade for Antetokounmpo has narrowed to a two-team race between the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat, with ESPN's Shams Charania confirming both franchises as finalists.

The Timberwolves had been among the most aggressive suitors for Antetokounmpo earlier in the offseason, with the Bucks previously expressing interest in a package that would have included Jaden McDaniels, Naz Reid, Terrence Shannon Jr., and two tradable first-round picks. However, the Timberwolves indicated McDaniels was off-limits, and Antetokounmpo's stated preference for an Eastern Conference destination complicated matters. Athletic beat reporter Jon Krawczynski acknowledged the slim odds while suggesting the door remains theoretically open: "The longer the Bucks go without getting a deal done with another team, the more the door stays open for Minnesota. But it seems like a very long shot at this point."

With the Giannis path closed, the Timberwolves have pivoted their trade focus to acquiring additional ballhandlers to pair with star Anthony Edwards. Minnesota has aggressively pursued Boston's Derrick White but has been rebuffed by the Celtics. The franchise has also expressed interest in Chicago's Josh Giddey and New Orleans' Trey Murphy III, though neither the Bulls nor Pelicans have signaled willingness to trade at the Wolves' asking price. The team also gauged the trade value of Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, and the No. 28 overall draft pick.

The Timberwolves must also navigate free agency carefully, particularly regarding backup point guard Ayo Dosunmu, who gains leverage when free agency negotiations officially begin on June 30. Should Minnesota fail to acquire a proven starting point guard through trades, they risk losing Dosunmu to another franchise willing to pay premium wages. The franchise brought in Alabama point guard Labaron Philon for a pre-draft workout, potentially signaling interest in trading up from their current draft position.