As [trade rumors swirl around his future, Giannis Antetokounmpo](https://www.masslive.com/celtics/2025/12/what-new-giannis-antetokounmpo-trade-rumors-mean-for-celtics-future.html) suffered a right calf strain in the Bucks win over the Pistons on Wednesday night at Fiserv Forum.
Antetokounmpo fell to the floor in what appeared to be a non-contact injury with nine minutes remaining in the first quarter while running back on defense. He remained on the floor for several seconds before being helped off by teammates and heading to the Bucks locker room. The team ruled him out shortly afterwards with Bucks coach Doc Rivers declaring postgame that he was set to have an MRI.
The Bucks went on to beat the Pistons to improve to 10-13 on the season, but a backdrop still looms about the uncertain future of Antetokonumpo, who ESPN reports spoke with the Bucks recently with his agent about his future amid a tough start to the year.
“I want to make it clear for the—I want to say one more time—for the 50th time, and clearly it’s not getting to one network, for sure, Giannis has never asked to be traded. Ever,” Rivers [told reporters](https://x.com/eric_nehm/status/1996360637107286430) in Milwaukee. “I can’t make that more clear.”
Antetokounmpo also missed four games last month with a groin strain so a prolonged absence would do nothing to improve the Bucks outlook and potentially lead Antetokounmpo to push for a new home during the current season. The All-Star may opt to stay cautious with his health as well to avoid the risk of further injury until he joins a contending team. The Bucks currently sit in 10th place in the Eastern Conference.
The Celtics are set to face Antetokounmpo and the Bucks next Thursday in Milwaukee. With several suitors lined up in the Eastern Conference for Antetokounmpo is made available, the Celtics will keep a close eye on the power forward since his future will certainly impact Boston’s team building strategy once he finds a new home. Meanwhile, depending on the severity of the injury, it’s fair to wonder whether Antetokounmpo has played one of his last games as a Buck.