Portland Trail Blazers could have a vital role in a Giannis Antetokounmpo, either as a facilitator or a direct contributor.
With the NBA trade deadline approaching on February 5, 2026, one of the most talked-about storylines around the league is the future of Giannis Antetokounmpo and whether the Milwaukee Bucks will actually move their franchise cornerstone.
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo
MIN: 29.11
PTS: 28.29 (65.48%)
REB: 9.89
AS: 5.64
ST: 0.89
BL: 0.71
TO: 3.29
GM: 28
And in a twist that’s creating major buzz, the Portland Trail Blazers have quietly emerged in discussions — not just as facilitators, but as potential suitors themselves.
According to league insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, the Blazers have actually informed the Bucks that they would like to acquire Antetokounmpo if a deal can be worked out.
However, the major caveat is that Portland recognizes how unlikely it is to convince Giannis to sign a long-term extension in the Pacific Northwest. Without a commitment beyond this season, the odds of truly landing the two-time MVP are slim.
This dynamic has shaped Portland’s strategy: while the Blazers have expressed interest, their role in any potential blockbuster could be more as a facilitator in a multi-team trade than as the final destination for Giannis.
Part of Portland’s leverage in trade calculations comes from the draft assets they hold from a previous swap with the Bucks specifically draft pick swaps in 2028 and 2030, and a first-round pick in 2029. These future assets could be attractive to Milwaukee if the Bucks are looking to reset or retool around a different core.
Another factor putting Portland into the conversation is existing personal connections: Blazers veterans Damian Lillard and Jrue Holiday both played with Giannis in Milwaukee in recent years, giving Portland at least a storyline to pitch to the reigning NBA MVP.
Still, most league executives view Portland’s involvement pragmatically, more as a facilitator that could help send Antetokounmpo elsewhere while acquiring an impact veteran or future assets for themselves.
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that sources believe Giannis could be traded by deadline or later, even though he has previously shown loyalty to Milwaukee, as recent contract talks and trade interests heat up.
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