The situation with Giannis Antetokounmpo is growing increasingly tense. Rumors about a possible departure continue to gain traction, yet he has not requested a trade. Adding to the drama, a recent dip in his performance led to boos from the home crowd, highlighting the mounting pressure on the Bucks star.
However, the Milwaukee front office has made it clear that Giannis Antetokounmpo is untouchable and not going anywhere anytime soon.
If Giannis Antetokounmpo wants to sign a supermax extension in October with a team besides the Bucks he has to be traded BEFORE the deadline, per @tomhaberstroh pic.twitter.com/rTHFJwXQgH
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) January 17, 2026
A recent report indicates that Giannis Antetokounmpo must resolve his situation with the Bucks soon, or he would be forced to sign a new deal with the team, blocking him from securing a supermax contract next summer.
This creates added complexity for any team pursuing the star, as he would need to request a trade before the February 5th deadline to keep that option open; waiting until the summer would eliminate it. All of this only heightens the pressure on Milwaukee, and while trade possibilities remain, teams interested in acquiring the Greek Freak have been asked to hold off for now.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and the struggling Bucks
Dec 29, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) in a time out during the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-Imagn Images
Antetokounmpo recently stated that he would never ask for a trade from the Bucks. Under normal circumstances, that declaration would have been enough to quell the rumors.
However, the possibility of a trade remains. Many believe the star wants to join a team with better championship potential, but he does not want to be the one to start the breakup.
Jan 13, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts in the second quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
The Milwaukee Bucks are usually aggressive ahead of the NBA Trade Deadline, and this season could bring their biggest move of the Giannis Antetokounmpo era. Following a string of heavy losses, the team is looking for a boost to revive its chances of returning to the postseason.
Staying idle feels impossible given Milwaukee’s recent struggles, yet executing the wrong move could push Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks even further into trouble.