Insights from the NBA Finals: potential next steps for KD and Giannis, and the Knicks' coaching future

The 2025 NBA Finals have captured the basketball world’s attention, spotlighting not just the thrilling clash between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers, but also the looming offseason dramas involving Kevin Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and the New York Knicks' coaching carousel. As the league edges closer to draft night and free agency, franchises are maneuvering to strengthen their rosters while grappling with high stakes decisions that could reshape their futures. From KD’s trade talks that involve multiple suitors to Milwaukee’s commitment to building around Giannis, and the Knicks’ chaotic search for a new coach after Tom Thibodeau’s departure, there’s plenty to dissect beyond the court. Let’s break down the latest inside intel and what it means moving forward.

Where Is Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Future Heading After The NBA Finals?

Giannis remains the centerpiece of speculation this offseason. While many teams dream of acquiring the Greek Freak — who is still in his prime at age 30 — the reality is more nuanced. Sources indicate that, as of now, Giannis is expected to start next season as a Milwaukee Buck. The front office, led by Jon Horst and coach Doc Rivers, has pitched a plan focused on maintaining the core roster and aiming for a playoff run with hopes that Damian Lillard’s Achilles recovery aligns.

The Bucks’ aggressive luxury tax history—spending upward of $200 million in recent years—raises questions about their payroll flexibility. The potential re-signing of Brook Lopez and the uncertain status of Bobby Portis’s $13.4 million player option will shape their financial decisions. Rumors suggest Milwaukee is prepared to enter the tax again but intends to remain below the $196 million apron to maximize the midlevel exception, which they'll likely use to secure a starting point guard, potentially targeting free agents like Dennis Schroder, Tyus Jones, or Malcolm Brogdon.

• The Bucks’ chances hinge on Lillard’s recovery and roster construction post-draft.
• Eastern Conference dynamics with Tatum and Embiid’s injury concerns open competitive windows.
• Luxury tax strategy will affect Milwaukee’s ability to build around Giannis.

With the NBA’s shifting financial landscape, it remains to be seen if the Bucks can compete at a high level or if this rumored stability will give way to a blockbuster trade later in the offseason.

Durant’s Trade Market: Multiple Interested Teams And The Complexities Ahead

Kevin Durant’s name is already the talk of the trade circuits. At 36, KD is in the twilight of his hall of fame career, but his offensive brilliance remains undeniable. Phoenix is actively exploring trade opportunities, with confirmed interest from five teams including the Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, and New York Knicks. Several others have also inquired, highlighting how coveted Durant still is despite his age.

However, the trade is complicated by:

• Durant’s preference for landing somewhere he feels invested in.
• The likelihood that any acquiring team must extend him a lucrative contract upwards of $60 million per year for his late-career seasons.
• Phoenix’s demand for significant return value to satisfy ownership, especially given the financial implications.

Durant’s February trade deadline drama—when trade talks happened without his knowledge—has shifted how the Suns manage this process now, emphasizing alignment and transparency. The Minnesota Timberwolves, who lacked flexibility earlier due to salary cap constraints, have gained traction as a frontrunner following contract opt-outs by key players and salary adjustments by Rudy Gobert.

The Los Angeles Clippers also deserve monitoring, as they aim to maximize floor spacing around stars Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. Yet, insiders remain skeptical about the trade price meeting Phoenix’s expectations, and many see this saga concluding by the June 25 draft night, which already promises substantial activity amid a weak free-agent class.

New York Knicks’ Coaching Search: Chaos And A Lack Of Strategy

Tom Thibodeau’s classy farewell to the Knicks, marked by a full-page ad in The New York Times, couldn’t hide the chaos unfolding behind the scenes. The Knicks have faced rejection after rejection in their attempts to speak with prestigious coaching candidates such as Quin Snyder, Billy Donovan, Jason Kidd, Ime Udoka, and Chris Finch. This series of refusals is unprecedented, leaving insiders shaking their heads at the mishandling by New York’s front office.

In a situation usually well-planned and targeted, the Knicks’ lack of a clear roadmap after moving on from a coach who led them to their first Conference Finals appearance in 25 years has become glaring.

• Potential openings include revisiting discussions with Kidd and Donovan who have local ties.
• Other candidates could be Taylor Jenkins, Mike Brown, Michael Malone, or assistants like Johnnie Bryant who have experience with Thibodeau’s system.
• The coaching search's failure reflects broader organizational instability, undermining team chemistry and fan confidence.

This ongoing saga starkly contrasts the Knicks’ bold roster moves and highlights the importance of leadership as the franchise hopes to return to contender status.

Free Agency Spotlight: Ty Jerome’s Market Shaping Up

While this offseason’s free agency class is light in star power, one name generating buzz is Cavaliers guard Ty Jerome. After returning from an ankle injury, Jerome proved vital in Cleveland’s impressive 64-win season—averaging 12.5 points on efficient shooting splits. His ability as a six-man and sharpshooter has raised expectations for a hefty raise, with projections pointing toward the midlevel exception of roughly $14.1 million.

The Cavaliers’ front office is cautious, trying to balance salary cap constraints, including the luxury tax apron, with retaining key contributors like Jerome and shooting specialist Sam Merrill.

• Jerome’s playmaking and scoring off the bench make him a luxury the Cavs hope to keep.
• Cleveland faces a fiscal balancing act navigating the luxury tax thresholds.
• What the Cavs do with Jerome could set a tone for managing up-and-coming free agents under the new CBA realities.

Securing Jerome without overcommitting will be a delicate dance for Cleveland, critical to their playoff aspirations.

How The 2025 NBA Finals Could Impact The Offseason Movements

The ongoing thrilling Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Indiana Pacers Finals, with the series tied at two games apiece, isn't just a showcase of grit but a stage for league-wide strategic assessment. Teams not competing on this path are watching closely, recalibrating their moves ahead of a pivotal draft and free agency.

Key lessons from these Finals include:

• The rise of young stars like Tyrese Haliburton signaling the new faces to build around.
• How tactical coaching and roster depth can shift momentum in tight series.
• The importance of veteran leadership in clutch moments, as seen in team performances.

These insights will ripple through draft strategies and trades, influencing how franchises, including those under the Nike, Adidas, Puma, Under Armour, New Era, Gatorade, Spalding, Fanatics, Reebok, and Jordan Brand banners, position themselves to contend in a rapidly evolving league.

For in-depth analysis of game-by-game action, check detailed breakdowns from the NBA Finals at Game 1 2025 NBA Finals, Pacers vs Thunder Game 1, and expert recaps at NBA Finals Thunder Pacers.