Bucks Shut Down Rockets Inquiry About Giannis Antetokounmpo, GM Stone Says
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Houston Rockets general manager Rafael Stone said Friday that Milwaukee Bucks executive Jon Horst made it clear Giannis Antetokounmpo is not available on the trade market.
Speaking on ESPN Radio’s Houston affiliate, Stone recounted a conversation with Horst while declining to mention the two-time MVP by name. “Jon was very clear that they weren’t doing anything,” Stone said, indicating talks never advanced.
Antetokounmpo has been linked to various trade scenarios throughout the offseason, yet league sources consistently note Milwaukee will only consider moving him if he formally requests it. To date, the forward has given no indication he plans to do so. He has been focused on Greece’s EuroBasket campaign and remains under contract with the Bucks through 2027, holding a $62.8 million option for the following season.
Milwaukee has spent the summer reshaping the roster in an effort to stay in championship contention. After guard Damian Lillard was ruled out for the season following Achilles surgery, the Bucks waived and stretched the $112.6 million left on his deal. They subsequently signed center Myles Turner away from the Indiana Pacers and added guards Gary Harris, Jericho Sims and Cole Anthony in free agency. The club also brought back Bobby Portis, Gary Trent Jr., Kevin Porter Jr., Ryan Rollins and Taurean Prince.
For now, Milwaukee’s stance remains unchanged: Antetokounmpo is not on the block, and the front office intends to give him every reason to stay.
Source: Hoops Wire
