Bucks Plan to Keep Giannis Antetokounmpo Past Trade Deadline, Leaving Lakers to Aim for Summer Deal
bucks-keep-giannis-through-deadline-lakers-eye-summer-trade
With the NBA trade deadline arriving today, the Milwaukee Bucks have informed rival teams they will not move Giannis Antetokounmpo before the cutoff, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Charania reported on Feb. 5, 2026, that Milwaukee intends to hold its two-time MVP through the deadline while pursuing other transactions. The decision removes the league’s most coveted name from immediate contention but sets up a bidding war once the offseason begins.
Lakers Await Offseason Window
The Los Angeles Lakers, unable to assemble a competitive offer at the deadline, are expected to be prominent suitors this summer. Team officials will have access to three first-round draft picks and significant cap flexibility when several contracts, including LeBron James’, expire after the season.
Los Angeles made a smaller move earlier this week, acquiring guard Luke Kennard from the Atlanta Hawks. Still, the franchise is widely known for targeting marquee talent, and Antetokounmpo fits that profile.
Milwaukee’s choice to delay any blockbuster deal gives the Lakers—and other interested clubs—time to craft their strongest proposals, potentially increasing the Bucks’ eventual return.
Source: LakersNation.com
