Even with ongoing trade rumors and offseason chatter about superstar forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, insiders say the Milwaukee Bucks locker room remains stable and focused.
An unnamed Bucks insider told ESPN’s Jamal Collier, “There’s no bigger difference than the perception of the outside compared to what’s going on in-house.”
After the Bucks endured a third straight first-round playoff exit last season and star guard Damian Lillard suffered an Achilles tear, questions arose about whether Giannis Antetokounmpo might seek a move elsewhere. The front office acted decisively to keep Giannis in Milwaukee, re-signing Bobby Portis, Kevin Porter Jr., Gary Trent Jr., and Taurean Prince.
Mar 4, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) and guard Damian Lillard (0) react after defeating the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
They also waived the injured Lillard to clear cap space and bring in center Myles Turner, one of the most sought-after unrestricted free agents available.
“The biggest misconception is that this was a panic move, It wasn’t,” the source told Collier. “It was a basketball decision. Dame on the other end of it, you’re not sure what that was going to look like. Meanwhile, Myles is a perfect fit. We want to win here.”
Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks so far
Oct 22, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) drives against Washington Wizards forward Khris Middleton (22) in the first half at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the Bucks explored trade possibilities for Giannis during the offseason, but discussions only involved the New York Knicks, the sole team he expressed interest in playing for outside of Milwaukee.
Antetokounmpo could consider requesting a trade if the season takes a downturn, but Milwaukee can keep him content by simply winning games. Their campaign began on a high note Wednesday with a 133-120 victory at home against the Washington Wizards.
Oct 22, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) and Washington Wizards forward Khris Middleton (22) former teammates talk to each other after their game at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
As expected, Giannis led all scorers with 37 points on 16-of-26 shooting, while also grabbing 14 rebounds and dishing out five assists. Even more promising, every starter reached double figures and seven players scored at least 10 points, hinting that Antetokounmpo may have a more reliable supporting cast this season.
Giannis continues to be the centerpiece of the Bucks’ success. The 30-year-old, a nine-time All-Star and two-time NBA MVP, will aim to guide Milwaukee to a 2-0 start when they travel to face the Toronto Raptors on Friday.