The Milwaukee Bucks have begun listening to trade offers for star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo ahead of the February 5 deadline, signaling a potential shift in their strategy. Leading interested teams include the Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, New York Knicks, and Minnesota Timberwolves. However, sources indicate a trade is more likely to occur in the offseason than immediately.
The Milwaukee Bucks' decision to entertain trade proposals for two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo marks a pivotal moment for the franchise. On January 8, Antetokounmpo firmly stated he would never request a trade, emphasizing, “That’s … not … in … my … nature.” He likened changing one's career path to altering a breakfast preference, questioning, “Just because I like my eggs scrambled today, I don’t have the opportunity to eat my eggs sunny-side up tomorrow?”
Recent struggles have complicated the situation. The Bucks have lost six of their last eight games, including a defeat to the Denver Nuggets on Friday where Antetokounmpo suffered a calf strain. A home loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on January 13 also drew boos from fans, prompting Antetokounmpo to embrace a villain role.
League executives suggest the Bucks, under general manager Jon Horst, are gauging the market value for their star, who holds a player option for 2027-28. Confirmed suitors include the Miami Heat, New York Knicks, Golden State Warriors, and Minnesota Timberwolves. The Warriors appear as frontrunners in some reports, able to offer up to four first-round picks, especially urgent with Stephen Curry turning 38 soon and injuries sidelining key players like Jonathan Kuminga.
Miami's interest is longstanding; their package could feature Tyler Herro, Ke’lel Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and picks from 2030 and 2032. Minnesota appeals due to Antetokounmpo’s affinity for pairing with Anthony Edwards, though their limited draft assets pose challenges. Last summer's Knicks-Bucks talks, which nearly sent Karl-Anthony Towns to Milwaukee, left lingering tensions with Towns.
The Atlanta Hawks were rumored contenders but have denied involvement, prioritizing Jalen Johnson in their rebuild. Teams like the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs have opted out. While ESPN suggests a pre-deadline deal is possible, most sources, including Bucks beat writer Eric Nehm, predict an offseason move to maximize return, as the Bucks seek “all of your young players and all of your draft picks.” This approach allows Horst to conduct a thorough auction without rushing amid fan backlash.
