The Oklahoma City Thunder were initially thought to be the team most likely to stand pat at the trade deadline, as they have a roster that just won the 2025 NBA championship. However, amid their recent struggles, there have been rumors that they are considering moves to improve their roster and possibly move into the league Giannis Antetokounmpo Sweepstakes.

The Thunder are first in the league with a 38-11 record, but are just 14-10 in their past 24 games. On Friday’s “NBA Today” show, league insider Brian Windhorst discussed the Thunder’s struggles over the past month and a half and suggested they could remain active heading into this season’s trade deadline.

“The last two years, and until the last few days, I’ve never heard the Thunder’s name in trade talks,” Windhorst said. “But I think that’s more of a reaction to looking for an opportunity than they are addressing a situation that’s going on.”

The Thunder have $188.9 million in payroll this season, ranking 20th in the NBA, according to Sportrac. However, According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks The Thunder’s payroll next season could exceed that of the second paddock, with payroll expected to exceed $246 million.

and NBA Insider Shams Charania It was reported Wednesday that Antetokounmpo is “ready to move to a new home,” and the Thunder may consider trading the 2021 NBA Finals MVP. The Milwaukee Bucks star has championship experience and will further improve the Thunder’s defense. Despite their recent slump, the Thunder still rank first in the NBA in defensive rating (105.7).

Charania added that the Milwaukee Bucks have “started to listen” to trade offers for Antetokounmpo. Several other reports indicate that Milwaukee wants to trade future draft picks and young players for the cornerstone of its franchise.

NBA reporter lays out blockbuster Giannis Antetokounmpo trade proposal

The Thunder could be in the Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes as they have a plethora of future draft picks and could also offer some young players. On Wednesday, Yahoo Sports’ Morten Stieg-Janssen proposed a one-for-one trade between the Thunder and Milwaukee Bucks.

In the mock trade, Milwaukee would send Giannis and his brother Thanasis Antetokounmpo, as well as Jericho Sims and Amir Coffey. In exchange, the Thunder will send Lou Dort, Isaiah Hartenstein, Carson Wallace, Thomas Sorbo, AJ Mitchell and three future first-round picks.

The proposed blockbuster deal would be beneficial to both parties. The Thunder added Giannis Antetokounmpo while retaining core players such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and Jalen Williams. Chet Holmgren. On the other hand, the Bucks acquired quality role players and draft capital to aid their upcoming rebuild.