For whatever reason, the New York Knicks continue to believe they have a chance to land Giannis Antetokounmpo. Outside of Shams Charania continuing to run the same report that ESPN has for a very long time now, there hasn’t been anything suggesting that he wants out of Milwaukee. 

According to James L. Edwards of The Athletic, the Knicks’ decision to wait as long as they did to extend Mikal Bridges was also influenced by the two-time MVP. While he noted that the Bucks are expected to have him on the roster at least at the beginning of next season, he also pointed out that Bridges’ contract took as long as it did because of Antetokounmpo. 

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“As for the Bridges extension, I don’t think it’s a coincidence that New York waited this long into the summer to get it done. The Giannis situation has lingered (and is continuing to somewhat linger), but people I’ve talked to are fairly confident Antetokounmpo will start next season with Milwaukee. I also don’t think it’s a coincidence that the Knicks signed Bridges to an extension before Aug. 6,” Edwards wrote.

Unless the Bucks are willing to take back a below-average offer, if they ever decide to move on from Antetokounmpo, which doesn’t seem likely, it’s also tough to suggest that the Knicks would be the team to trade him to.

It isn’t like the Knicks have many assets, and considering they could be looking at one of the biggest trade hauls in NBA history if it ever happens, there’s not much of a reason to consider it unless a third team gets involved.