The Untouchables
The untouchables in this scenario are relatively easy to identify. Whether the trade is executed by two teams or three, the determination of who can be acquired begins with establishing who would be off limits if a trade were to be executed.
It starts with the New York Knicks, which will not trade Willy Hernangomez, Frank Ntilikina, or Kristaps Porzingis for Jabari Parker.
As for Milwaukee, the only untouchable on the list is Giannis Antetokounmpo. One could reasonably add Thon Maker and Khris Middleton to the list, but it’s Antetokounmpo who looks the part of a legitimate franchise player.
As for Middleton and Maker, both would be incredibly appealing for the Knicks, but neither would be paired with Parker; the loss would simply be too profound to overcome.
For Houston, the only two players who are unequivocally off limits are James Harden and Chris Paul. One could fairly add Eric Gordon to that list due to his value to the second unit, but something could be negotiated.
Between Antetokounmpo, Harden, Paul, and Porzingis, there are undeniable untouchables on all three sides of the negotiating table.