The Milwaukee Bucks are working the trade market but have found little momentum as questions about Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future grow louder, league sources told multiple outlets.
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Milwaukee has discussed deals involving forward Bobby Portis while pursuing scoring options such as Washington’s Kyle Kuzma. Executives contacted by the network said progress has been limited because the Bucks lack premium draft capital and cannot outline a clear long-term direction while Antetokounmpo’s status hangs in the balance.
Rival teams monitor Giannis situation
Jake Fischer of The Stein Line wrote over the weekend that several front offices now view an Antetokounmpo trade as a realistic possibility. According to Fischer, last Wednesday’s loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder — followed by the two-time MVP’s candid post-game remarks — was seen by some executives as a potential tipping point.
Charania previously noted that Antetokounmpo’s frustration has reached “an all-time high,” creating tension inside the locker room and throughout the organization.
Injury adds pressure before deadline
A strained calf is expected to keep Antetokounmpo sidelined until at least the Feb. 5 trade deadline. The 29-year-old recently suggested a four-to-six-week recovery timeline, leaving Milwaukee without its franchise centerpiece during a pivotal stretch of the season.
With the Bucks slipping in the standings and their star unavailable, insiders believe the club could pivot toward draft positioning in the season’s second half, regardless of whether a blockbuster deal materializes.
Contract details
Antetokounmpo is owed $54.1 million this season and $58.5 million in 2026-27. He holds a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28 and becomes eligible for another contract extension in October.
Source: Hoops Wire
