ESPN analysts outline six hypothetical NBA draft trades including Giannis Antetokounmpo blockbuster
Ben Golliver, Zach Kram, and Bobby Marks propose moves involving 11 lottery picks ahead of the 23 June 2026 draft
ESPN analysts Ben Golliver, Zach Kram, and Bobby Marks have published six hypothetical trade scenarios for the 2026 NBA Draft, which is scheduled to commence on 23 June 2026. The proposals are speculative analyses involving the movement of various lottery picks and a significant potential blockbuster involving Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo. The most prominent scenario suggests the Miami Heat could acquire Antetokounmpo in exchange for Tyler Herro, Kel'el Ware, Nikola Jovic, and multiple future draft picks.
The proposals feature the movement of lottery picks including Nos. 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 17, and 18. One scenario involves the Washington Wizards swapping the first and second overall picks with the Utah Jazz. Another proposal sees the Brooklyn Nets moving up to select Cameron Boozer, while the Oklahoma City Thunder are linked to acquiring interior depth.
In the historic top-two swap, the Wizards would acquire the No. 2 pick and a future first-round selection from the Jazz in exchange for the No. 1 pick. This move would reportedly allow Washington to select Ace Bailey and Darryn Peterson, addressing roster needs. For Utah, the swap would secure AJ Dybantsa, a prospect the franchise has reportedly targeted.
The Antetokounmpo scenario remains the most significant proposal. The Miami Heat would send Herro, Ware, Jovic, and future picks to Milwaukee. Analysts note this deal would provide the Bucks with young talent and lottery assets, while the Heat would gain a two-time MVP in the second half of his prime. The trade is described as a clean skeleton for a deal that would resolve the Bucks' front-office situation.
Other scenarios include the Kings trading up for a point guard and the Hornets packaging picks to move into the top 10. The Chicago Bulls and Atlanta Hawks are noted as standing pat in these scenarios. The proposals serve as speculative analysis ahead of the draft, which begins on June 23, 2026.
