It has been a rough stretch for the Milwaukee Bucks, and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s frustration is showing.
Despite putting up 28.8 points and 9.5 rebounds per game on 64.7 percent shooting, the two-time MVP has watched the Bucks slide to a disastrous 17-24 record.
The situation came to a head following a 139-106 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, where Giannis faced the boos from the fans with a double thumbs down, signaling his disappointment in the overall situation around the team.
Associate coach Rajon Rondo didn’t hold back on the KG Certified podcast, pointing to the lack of consistent buy-in from teammates as a key factor behind Giannis’s growing frustration. Milwaukee’s costly additions, Myles Turner, and Kyle Kuzma have yet to deliver, leaving the team in a state of crisis with the February 5 trade deadline approaching.
Social media and fan forums have already begun speculating about Giannis as a potential trade target, with the New York Knicks still emerging as a prime suitor.
Karl-Anthony Towns for Giannis Antetokounmpo?
Oct 28, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) passes the ball away from New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) in the second quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
For the Knicks, acquiring Giannis would address the team’s struggles with Karl-Anthony Towns. The Knicks dropped a 106-99 decision to the Phoenix Suns, with their $220 million center contributing just 23 points as Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart sat out with right ankle injuries.
Towns’ most frustrating moment came in the closing minute of the fourth quarter when he had the ball at the top of the key with a chance to give New York a chance to cut a seven-point lead with a three-pointer, only to airball it.
KAT airballs and Knicks fans are BOOING the team 😭 pic.twitter.com/YDeuOSIZ2i
— BrickCenter (@BrickCenter_) January 18, 2026
Pairing a five-time All-Defensive team star with Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby would give New York a dominant two-way presence capable of carrying the team on both ends of the floor. With a strong bench to support him, Giannis could immediately relieve the Knicks of relying so heavily on Brunson.
Nov 8, 2024; New York, New York, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) controls the ball against New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby (8) and center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) during the third quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Though Giannis has publicly downplayed trade rumors, reports suggest he once considered New York a preferred destination. With the Bucks faltering and Giannis visibly frustrated, the trade deadline looms as probably the most important moment in franchise history, potentially setting the stage for the biggest NBA domino to fall in Madison Square Garden.