Is Giannis Antetokounmpo nearing the end of his run with the Milwaukee Bucks? A growing number of observers think that may be the case, including ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.
With the February 5 trade deadline approaching, the Bucks could explore a deal involving Antetokounmpo, particularly given the substantial package he would be expected to bring back if a move were made before then.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s situation with the Milwaukee Bucks continues to draw questions. Speaking on ESPN’s NBA Countdown, Brian Windhorst said there is a belief that if a trade does not happen before this year’s deadline, Antetokounmpo could instead be moved once the offseason arrives.
“It’s almost a couple that everybody in the league thinks is going to get a divorce. They don’t know if they’re going to get divorced by Easter, if they’re going to get divorced by July 4, but in the league, the teams do believe this is gonna be a divorce,” Windhorst remarked.
Brian Windhorst on Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks impending “divorce”
Jan 19, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) dribbles the ball down the court against the Atlanta Hawks during the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
“And I know what Giannis is on the record as saying, I know what Doc [Rivers] is on the record of saying. The Bucks to my knowledge are still not taking phone calls on Giannis, they’re only making outgoing calls. Having said that, I can just tell you that the teams are poised thinking this could end up being a separation at some point.”
The Milwaukee Bucks sit at 18–25 and remain in 11th place in the Eastern Conference, leaving them outside the No. 10 seed and the final spot in the Play-In tournament.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has averaged 28.5 points per game across 28 appearances this season, though his availability has been limited at times due to a recent calf strain.
Jan 21, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) drives against Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) in the first half at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
The Greek Freak is under contract through the 2027-28 season, with a $62.8 million player option in the final year. If the Bucks choose to explore a trade, Antetokounmpo would command a significant return that could help jump start a new chapter for the franchise.
Still, past moves suggest general manager Jon Horst will look for ways to compete with Antetokounmpo on the roster, though that approach could change if the Bucks continue to fall out of the Eastern Conference picture.