Doc Rivers Denies Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Request Amid Renewed Buzz
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Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers flatly rejected fresh speculation that Giannis Antetokounmpo is reconsidering his long-term future with the franchise, saying the two-time MVP has never asked out of Milwaukee.
Speaking to reporters this week, Rivers addressed a report from Shams Charania that indicated Antetokounmpo had reopened discussions with team officials about his next steps. “There’s been no conversations,” the coach said, according to The Athletic’s Eric Nehm. “Giannis has never asked to be traded. Ever. I talk to the source every single day, and he loves Milwaukee and he loves the Bucks.” Rivers clarified that his “source” is Antetokounmpo himself.
The renewed chatter followed comments on ESPN Cleveland from Brian Windhorst, who stated the forward had already requested a trade before the season. Windhorst later walked back that remark, noting there was no formal demand, although he added that offseason discussions with the New York Knicks did not originate from the Bucks.
Team executives who spoke with The Athletic echoed Rivers, insisting there has been no trade request or ultimatum. Nevertheless, Antetokounmpo’s removal of most Bucks-related content from his social media accounts and the club’s sluggish start have kept rival front offices on alert. Windhorst reported several teams conducted internal meetings this week to outline potential trade packages should the star eventually seek a move.
League observers are also eyeing Dec. 15, when a significant number of players become eligible to be traded, potentially expanding options for any future negotiations.
While rumors swirl, Antetokounmpo is expected to miss two to four weeks because of a calf strain, according to the Bucks.
Source: Hoops Wire
