Trade speculation surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo has grown louder after the Milwaukee Bucks star suffered a calf injury that could sideline him for four to six weeks, league sources told reporter Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.
Fischer indicated that front-office interest in a possible Antetokounmpo deal had been “quietly building” even before the February 5 trade deadline. The latest injury, however, has pushed conversations to what one source described as a “draft-day level event.”
Bucks Struggle While Rumors Swirl
Milwaukee has dropped five of its last six games and sits at 18-26, currently outside the Eastern Conference play-in positions. Despite the slide, the organization has publicly maintained it intends to buy at the deadline, not sell.
Antetokounmpo, 29, recently criticized teammates for “selfish” play, and ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the two-time MVP’s frustration “is at an all-time high.” Rival executives now view his situation as the NBA’s primary deadline storyline, according to multiple reports.
Market Calculations Change
The calf setback leaves some clubs wary of making an offer, while others see a potential buy-low opportunity with hopes he returns healthy after the All-Star break. Meanwhile, Milwaukee’s attempts to add talent—deals linked to Kyle Kuzma and Bobby Portis—have reportedly stalled, as opposing teams hesitate to strengthen a roster that might soon entertain offers for Antetokounmpo.
With each Bucks loss, league observers say the noise intensifies, and front offices continue to monitor every development leading up to deadline day.
Source: Hoops Wire
