NBA teams eyeing a championship have been speculating about a potential trade involving Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks as the February 5 trade deadline approaches.
While a trade seems likely, the timing remains uncertain.
Bucks Clarify Stance on Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Offers
Sources indicate that the Bucks are now more receptive to trade offers for Antetokounmpo, although they aren’t in a hurry to finalize a deal. The team appears willing to assess options for his future in the offseason, especially if they don’t receive what they consider to be a fair value in return, which would include high-caliber young players or multiple draft picks.
Reports suggest that Antetokounmpo had requested a trade before the current season began. In January, the two-time MVP claimed he would “never” demand a trade and expressed commitment to helping the Bucks improve. However, this was prior to the team’s 18-27 record and his recent calf injury, which could potentially sideline him past the trade deadline.
If he opts out of his contract’s player option, Antetokounmpo could reach unrestricted free agency in the summer of 2027. The report from ESPN suggested that the Bucks might be willing to wait until this summer for a trade if they don’t receive an adequate offer for the 31-year-old.
Reasons Bucks Might Trade Giannis Antetokounmpo Sooner
Recently, Antetokounmpo voiced concerns that some players on his struggling team were “not playing hard,” “not playing to win,” and exhibiting “selfish” behavior. Sources have reported that his uncertain future is causing tension within the team. Furthermore, insiders mentioned that there are clear signs regarding Antetokounmpo’s future with the Bucks.
Despite these developments, it seems the Bucks are reluctant to trade Antetokounmpo for a lower offer before the February 5 deadline. How teams like the New York Knicks respond to this situation remains to be seen.