In a development that has the NBA world buzzing, insider Brian Windhorst (@WindhorstESPN) has linked the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs as teams to watch in the sweepstakes for two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. Though Giannis is currently under contract with the Milwaukee Bucks, speculation around his future has grown following consecutive early playoff exits and a shifting power dynamic in the Eastern Conference. The potential for a seismic move involving one of the league’s most dominant two-way players is now being tied to two rising Western Conference teams with vastly different rosters and ambitions.
Houston Rockets: A Team on the Rise
The Rockets are emerging from a rebuild with a promising young core and ample cap flexibility. Under head coach Ime Udoka, Houston made notable strides in the 2024–25 season, led by players like Jalen Green, Alperen Şengün, Jabari Smith Jr., and rookie standout Amen Thompson. More importantly, Houston has a treasure trove of draft assets, including several first-round picks acquired in past trades. This makes them one of the few teams capable of offering a compelling package for a superstar without gutting their roster.
Adding Giannis to the mix could accelerate Houston’s transition from development mode to full contention. His elite defense, transition scoring, and leadership would provide the franchise with a much-needed superstar anchor. In a Western Conference filled with elite talent, Giannis could be the key to transforming Houston into a perennial playoff force. From a marketing standpoint, his global appeal would also revitalize the Rockets’ brand, still looking to fill the post-Harden void.
San Antonio Spurs: Wembanyama + Giannis?
The possibility of Giannis joining the San Antonio Spurs might be even more intriguing. San Antonio is building around Victor Wembanyama, the 7’4” phenom who lived up to the hype in his rookie season. Pairing Wembanyama with Antetokounmpo would create arguably the most formidable frontcourt in NBA history — two long, athletic, unselfish stars capable of defending all five positions and dominating on both ends.
Coach Gregg Popovich’s system would be a strong fit for Giannis’ high-IQ game, and the Spurs have the salary flexibility and draft assets needed to make a serious run if Milwaukee were to entertain trade offers. Such a pairing could launch a new dynasty in San Antonio, reviving the franchise’s glory days with Tim Duncan and Kawhi Leonard. Moreover, Giannis has always emphasized winning and culture — two qualities the Spurs are known for.
Milwaukee’s Dilemma
The Bucks remain hopeful they can continue building around Giannis, but pressure is mounting. With Khris Middleton aging and injuries taking a toll on their depth, Milwaukee may need to retool or risk losing Giannis for nothing. If contract extension talks stall or the team fails to contend again next season, the front office could be forced into tough decisions.
Conclusion
While there’s no indication a move is imminent, the fact that credible insiders like Windhorst are linking Giannis to teams like the Rockets and Spurs suggests that league executives are monitoring the situation closely. If either team pulls off a trade or signs him in the future, it would instantly reshape the balance of power in the NBA. The Rockets and Spurs — two franchises at different stages of their rebuild — could both offer the Greek Freak the chance to compete for titles while being part of something historic.
