Blockbuster Giannis Antetounmpo trade idea send shockwaves, puts Thunder’s championship dreams in jeopardy

Currently, the OKC Thunder have the second-highest odds of capturing the Larry O’Brien Trophy at the end of the 2024-25 NBA season. Their impressive roster and strong start to the season certainly justify this high ranking.

However, the Western Conference remains competitive as usual, with nine teams currently holding winning records and only four falling below .500. Leading the pack are the Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, and Thunder, all off to a stellar 7-1 start through eight games.

While Phoenix and Golden State trail OKC in title odds, they have one advantage the Thunder lack: substantial championship experience. With Phoenix led by two-time Finals MVP Kevin Durant and Golden State’s core of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Andrew Wiggins still intact, these teams bring a level of playoff pedigree that Oklahoma City doesn’t yet have.

Recently, a new trade proposal emerged, potentially boosting one of these contenders even further. FanSided’s Josh Cornelissen suggested a trade scenario in which two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo would head to the Warriors, enhancing their championship credentials.

Rumors of a possible Giannis trade gained momentum after CBS Sports’ Bill Reiter reported that a Western Conference executive mentioned teams are “circling and hopeful” Giannis could become available if the Bucks’ 1-6 record doesn’t improve. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst also noted that Golden State might be a prime candidate to pull off a big trade before February, saying they’re “itching to make a major move.”

With all this speculation, media sources have been quick to envision potential deals, including Cornelissen’s recent three-team blockbuster trade idea involving Giannis and the Warriors.