As the 2025-26 trade deadline draws near, sources confirm that the Milwaukee Bucks are firmly maintaining that Giannis Antetokounmpo is not for sale. Marc Stein, reporting via HoopsHype, notes that the Bucks are repeatedly telling other teams, “He’s not available. We don’t want your trade pitches,” even as rumors surrounding Antetokounmpo continue to swirl throughout the league.
Stein adds that even with Milwaukee’s persistent refusals, the rest of the league is acting as though a window could still open. Front offices are preparing in case the Bucks ever show a hint of willingness to listen, yet Stein stresses that, “To this point — the Bucks continue to say: ‘We are not trading this guy.’”
The Greek Freak remains out with a calf strain and is expected to be sidelined for 2 weeks to close to a month. The Bucks have dropped to 10-16 in the standings during his absence. Antetokounmpo still leads the club in every major category with averages of 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists. Kevin Porter Jr. and Ryan Rollins continue to chip in as secondary playmakers, but the results show how much the Bucks struggle without their franchise star on the floor.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s uncertain future
Stein added that Antetokounmpo openly mentioned during Bucks Media Day that the Knicks were one of the teams he could see himself considering in the offseason. He also noted that New York’s energized fanbase has made a strong impression on him.
Other teams, including the Miami Heat, stand on the outside of the conversation unless they overhaul their roster. Stein points out that Miami would have to move players such as Andrew Wiggins in a meaningful offer, and league sources continue to stress that the Heat do not have a clear path to pursue Antetokounmpo unless they bring far stronger assets to the table.
Antetokounmpo’s player option for the 2027-28 season gives him considerable leverage over where he could land next. League executives point out that any team hoping to make a serious push for him would need clear signs he is willing to commit long term. Front offices know they must check both boxes, competitive stability and market appeal, before investing the type of capital a Giannis deal demands.
The Bucks continue to make their stance crystal clear. For now, Giannis Antetokounmpo is not on the table, and the front office has no intention of listening to offers. Even so, the conversation around his future keeps building, and the rest of the league remains locked in on every development.
