The Milwaukee Bucks find themselves in one of the league’s most uncertain spots as they try to chart a path forward. Giannis Antetokounmpo still anchors the franchise, but a thin and uneven roster has kept Milwaukee in trade chatter since the offseason.
Around the league, teams continue to track the situation closely, aware that Antetokounmpo could eventually push for a move if the Bucks cannot build a group capable of competing at the highest level.
Speculation about Antetokounmpo’s future in Milwaukee picked up after his injury coincided with the Bucks sliding down the standings to 11th, fighting just to stay in the play-in picture. Since returning, Giannis has pushed back on that noise, making it clear after a win over the Chicago Bulls that he remains committed to the roster and focused on helping the team stabilize.
The Milwaukee Bucks front office is telling teams that Giannis isn’t going anywhere, per @MikeAScotto
“I’ve spoken to plenty of GMs that would love to have Giannis and have tried to talk to Bucks GM Jon Horst about acquiring him and quite frankly, he's not going anywhere. They… pic.twitter.com/goq3mbNeoJ
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) December 28, 2025
NBA reporter Mike Scotto reported that the Bucks’ front office has started telling rival teams that Antetokounmpo is not available and that the organization has no intention of moving him.
Jon Horst and the Bucks stand their ground on Giannis Antetokounmpo trade
Dec 27, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) goes up for a dunk against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
“I’ve spoken to plenty of GMs that would love to have Giannis and have tried to talk to Bucks GM Jon Horst about acquiring him and quite frankly, he’s not going anywhere. They they’ve been telling me the Bucks have been steadfast that he’s not going anywhere,” said the NBA insider.
The Bucks would only consider moving Antetokounmpo if he personally pushed for it, given his status as arguably the greatest player in franchise history. If Giannis continues to commit to Milwaukee for the remainder of the season, any realistic trade scenario would effectively come off the table.
Dec 27, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts after scoring against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Milwaukee has already captured an NBA championship during the Giannis era and have repeatedly made aggressive moves to support him. Over the years, The Bucks brought in established stars such as Jrue Holiday, Damian Lillard, and Myles Turner in an effort to strengthen the roster and show a clear commitment to competing around Antetokounmpo.