Giannis Antetokounmpo remained with the Milwaukee Bucks past the Feb. 5 trade deadline, yet league insiders quoted by Jake Fischer in The Stein Line say many front-office figures still anticipate the All-Star forward could be moved this summer—ideally to what they describe as a “true title contender.”
Potential landing spots for Antetokounmpo
Fischer reports that several contenders will be able to propose stronger offers in July than they could during the winter window. Sources cited in the story expect the Brooklyn Nets to mount a serious pursuit, either with a package centered on Michael Porter Jr. and draft picks or by crafting a deal that keeps Porter in Brooklyn. Executives also believe postseason results for the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs could influence how aggressively those clubs enter the bidding.
Bucks monitor Ja Morant
Memphis held onto Ja Morant at the deadline after deciding against offers comparable to the haul Atlanta obtained for Trae Young. Although there was limited leaguewide interest at that point, multiple teams told Fischer they think Milwaukee is intrigued by the idea of acquiring Morant—either to pair with Antetokounmpo or to lead a possible rebuild if the Greek star departs.
Chicago focuses on wings in free agency
Deadline moves by the Washington Wizards and Utah Jazz reduced the number of clubs expected to have meaningful cap space in 2026. Chicago, Brooklyn and both Los Angeles franchises now project as the primary teams with room. According to Fischer, the Bulls have informed other executives that adding wings will be their top priority. Targets could range from unrestricted veterans such as Khris Middleton and Tobias Harris to younger restricted free agents like Bennedict Mathurin and Tari Eason. Chicago, heavy on guards, is also expected to search for a starting center.
Yabusele draws interest overseas
Forward Guerschon Yabusele removed a second-year player option to facilitate his trade from the New York Knicks to the Bulls. Fischer notes the French veteran is now expected to command a “competitive” EuroLeague market this summer, having previously considered an NBA deal with the Denver Nuggets before joining New York.
The story concludes with the understanding that the summer market—both in trades and free agency—could reshape several franchises once the offseason calendar opens.
Source: Hoops Rumors
