Rockets Reportedly Pursue Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade With Bucks Near 2025 Draft

The Houston Rockets are emerging as a key player in the NBA offseason, with multiple reports linking them to potential blockbuster trades involving superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is reportedly open to leaving the Milwaukee Bucks. Antetokounmpo's interest in playing in a state with no income tax narrows potential destinations to Houston, Miami, or Memphis, but the Rockets stand out by having assets and picks to offer in exchange. Meanwhile, Houston is also exploring the possibility of upgrading their roster by acquiring Trae Young from the Atlanta Hawks to provide more star power and shooting, complementing their strong defensive unit. The Rockets' young core and recent success, including a 52-30 record and securing the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference, position them uniquely as both a contender and a major hub for trade activity ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft. With a top-10 pick acquired from the Phoenix Suns and salary cap considerations looming, the Rockets face strategic decisions on whether to use draft assets or pursue veteran stars like Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant, or Ja Morant. General manager Rafael Stone has acknowledged the possibility of trading future picks to upgrade the current roster, underscoring Houston's aggressive approach to building a championship-caliber team.