Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo creates interesting contract situation for Knicks wing

Despite no real rumors suggesting Giannis Antetokounmpo wants to leave the Milwaukee Bucks, his comment during a live stream with IShowSpeed about people wanting him to play for the New York Knicks has fueled speculation among Knicks fans. However, there is no evidence indicating he wants to leave Milwaukee, and it seems very unlikely he will play for another team soon.

Despite the unlikelihood, analysis suggests the Knicks are reportedly still hoping to acquire Antetokounmpo if he becomes available. His recent noncommittal comments haven't dampened that hope. In such a scenario, Mikal Bridges could become a crucial part of trade talks because the Knicks currently lack first-round picks to offer, and the Bucks would likely prioritize players who keep them competitive post-Antetokounmpo. Signing Bridges to a new contract extension now would complicate matters, as players signing that type of extension cannot be traded for six months.

The Mikal Bridges extension situation is therefore significant. While the Knicks have little reason *not* to extend him given what they traded to acquire him, if they genuinely believe they have a chance to land Antetokounmpo, there would be little reason to sign Bridges immediately. Doing so would render him untradeable for half a year, potentially hindering their ability to use him as a trade asset in an Antetokounmpo deal.