Trade chatter around the Milwaukee Bucks has intensified in recent weeks as Giannis Antetokounmpo’s name continues to surface, a trend that only accelerated following his latest injury.
At the same time, Milwaukee has slid further down the Eastern Conference standings, and the team now finds itself fighting uphill just to stay in the playoff picture, with its margin for error shrinking by the game.
More recently, ESPN’s Tim Bontemps floated a provocative idea on the Hoop Collective podcast, suggesting that continued losing could actually serve Milwaukee’s long-term interests this season, even when it comes to their efforts to persuade Giannis Antetokounmpo to remain with the franchise.
“If you want to construct a path to have the Bucks being able to convince Giannis that this is a place he can win long term, here is what it is. He basically is out the rest of the season. They are already, as you said eighth in the lottery standings, they can fall pretty quick, pretty far in those lottery standings with the roster they have. They have a real shot I think to be in or around the top five in the draft,” remarked Bontemps during his appearance on the podcast.
Will the Bucks tank for Giannis Antetokounmpo?
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
In this scenario, the Bucks would lean into losing with the goal of landing a potential star in the loaded 2026 NBA Draft, then pairing that young talent on a cost controlled deal with Antetokounmpo for the following season.
The issue is that Milwaukee does not fully control its 2026 first round pick. The Bucks will receive the lesser of their own pick or New Orleans’ pick, but that selection could still carry significant value depending on how the season plays out.
Dec 29, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) in a time out during the first half agains the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-Imagn Images
At this stage, the idea of Milwaukee making a win now push at the trade deadline appears unrealistic. The concept of pivoting toward a longer view and positioning themselves for a future star is far more compelling, especially given how it might resonate with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Regardless of the direction ahead, the Bucks return to action Tuesday night at home against the Philadelphia 76ers.