The Pacers have proven they can compete in the playoffs with some of the best teams in the Eastern Conference.
But you could argue they need to add one more piece to reach the elite tier in the NBA.
Lucky for Indiana, a superstar could be on the market.
The Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo reportedly is "open-minded" for the first time in his career about exploring options outside of Milwaukee. With one year left on his contract, teams could trade for him with the hopes of resigning the Greek Freak.
The Ringer published a piece with seven different potential trades for Antetokounmpo. Writer Tyler Parker predicted a deal to the Pacers, which he says is the "funniest option."
Pacers potential trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo
Pacers receive:
- Giannis Antetokounmpo
Bucks receive:
- Pascal Siakam
- Bennedict Mathurin
- Ben Sheppard
- "A bounty of picks"
We can assume a bounty refers to multiple firsts and multiple pick swaps. This trade would give Milwaukee a cornerstone piece in Siakam along with a couple of solid players and future assets.
The Pacers would upgrade Siakam with the acquisition of Giannis and likely become a top team in the Eastern Conference.
The irony of it would be that the Pacers have knocked out the Bucks in each of the last two playoffs. It would be the ultimate case of 'if you can't beat them, join them.'
The number one trade destination for Giannis Antetokounmpo is the Indiana Pacers
— Young Simba (@the2kmessiah) May 1, 2025
(via @ringernba) pic.twitter.com/ZwTGgMZsy7
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"Pacerland would provide him all the space he could want, a young, tested supporting cast that can score without him having to generate everything," Parker wrote. "He’d still be on a proper contender, and his load would not be so heavy."
It could be the perfect change of scenery for the Greek Freak and create some great content for everyone.