Bucks Dismiss Giannis Trade Calls; Sheppard Close to Return, Ball Sits in Spurs Win
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December 30, 2025 — Executives across the NBA continue to ask about Giannis Antetokounmpo, but the Milwaukee Bucks have insisted the two-time MVP is unavailable, HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto said during a Sportsnet appearance.
Scotto reported that multiple general managers approached Bucks general manager Jon Horst about a potential deal, only to be turned away. Antetokounmpo considered a possible move during the offseason, leading Milwaukee to explore options with the New York Knicks, according to ESPN’s Jamal Collier and Shams Charania. Talks never advanced, and league sources told ESPN the Bucks will not initiate trade discussions unless Antetokounmpo formally asks out.
Pacers Injury Updates
Indiana guard Ben Sheppard was ruled out for an 11th straight game Monday with a left calf strain, but his pregame status was upgraded to questionable, The Indianapolis Star noted, indicating he could return soon. Forward Aaron Nesmith recently came back from a knee injury, and center Isaiah Jackson remains in concussion protocol.
With Jackson sidelined, the Pacers signed free-agent center Micah Potter last week. Circle City Spin reported that Indiana must waive Potter on or before next Wednesday to avoid guaranteeing his full-season salary.
Cavaliers Rest Lonzo Ball
The Cleveland Cavaliers held veteran guard Lonzo Ball out of Monday’s 113-101 victory in San Antonio. Head coach Kenny Atkinson told Cleveland.com he wanted to test different lineups and manage Ball’s workload as the club plays every other day.
Rookie Craig Porter Jr. filled in as the backup point guard, recording six rebounds and four assists in 15 minutes. Cleveland outscored the Spurs by 12 points during his stint, matching the game’s final margin.
Source: HoopsRumors
