NBA Rumors: Golden State Warriors May Prioritize Giannis Antetokounmpo In The Offseason

Giannis Antetokounmpo will not be available in the market until the end of the 2021 season, but it seems the Golden State Warriors won't be waiting for next year's free agency hysteria as they are reportedly targeting the Greek Freak as early as the upcoming offseason.

Despite being tagged as one of the early frontrunners to sign the reigning MVP, the Dubs - who are in possession of several viable trade assets - might just shoot their shot.

Kevin O'Connor of The Ringer said in a recent interview with NBC Sports Bay Area that while it looks like a miracle of biblical proportions, the Warriors could prioritize vying for the Milwaukee Bucks star.

“That’s (signing Antetokounmpo) the No. 1 target of course,” O’Connor said. “People say, ‘How would you get Giannis?’ Well, you have multiple salaries — (Andrew) Wiggins or Draymond (Green) — that you could move. You could move your first (round draft pick) this year and that very appealing Minnesota (first-round) pick next year. But that’s, of course, a pipe dream. But a dream nonetheless and it’s worth pursuing.”

The Warriors have struggled mightily this season, tallying just 15 wins in 65 games as the team had to adjust to the post-Kevin Durant era while also dealing with the absence of Klay Thompson and Steph Curry due to injuries.

Turning from a dominant dynasty into a cellar-dwelling lottery team, acquiring another top-tier player seems imperative for the Dubs in their quest to quickly regain the lost glory in the Bay Area.

Last September, Ramona Shelburne of ESPN hinted on the possibility of Antetokounmpo suiting up for Golden State, saying the Warriors "have always been the big threat" to pursue the 25-year-old superstar.

But while it remains to be seen, Antetokounmpo is sticking with the same mission: to win a championship for Milwaukee.

Now a four-time All-Star, Antetokounmpo has led the Bucks to the best record in the NBA prior to the hiatus, recording 53 wins against 12 losses. He is also right on pace to win his second straight MVP award, putting up 29.6 points, 13.7 rebounds, and 5.8 assists while shooting 54.7% from the field in 57 games this season.