As the NBA trade deadline on February 5 draws near, all focus remains on Giannis Antetokounmpo and his next move. Despite persistent trade speculation, the two-time MVP spoke about his deep-rooted connection to Milwaukee, the city that shaped him from an unknown prospect into a champion, an MVP, and a dad.
The Greek Freak pointed out that some of his most important life moments, including his marriage and his father’s burial, are tied closely to Wisconsin.
Although he voiced a clear wish to stay with the Bucks for his entire career, he also accepted the realities of professional basketball, noting that he would have to consider other paths if the team decides to go in another direction.
The Bucks and their quiet optimism on Giannis Antetokounmpo
Jan 23, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) walks from the court following the game against the Denver Nuggets at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
Marc Stein reports that the Bucks’ front office is quietly hoping a particular draft lottery scenario could help them keep their superstar. Milwaukee currently holds a complicated pick arrangement, taking the lower of two selections between their own and the New Orleans Pelicans’ pick.
League sources suggest that if both teams land top-four picks in the lottery, the Bucks would have a reason to be optimistic. While New Orleans would need to send its higher pick to Atlanta under the Derik Queen trade, Milwaukee would still come away with a valuable top-tier asset.
This potential draft pick could significantly boost the Bucks’ leverage. Landing a top-four selection in what is widely regarded as a deep 2026 class would give the Bucks the trade assets needed to pursue a high-impact veteran.
Dec 31, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) shoots during warmups prior to the game against the Washington Wizards at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
The plan would be to add a veteran partner capable of convincing Antetokounmpo that the Bucks can still compete for a championship. Despite being out with a calf strain, the Greek Freak’s trade value is at an all-time high.
The Bucks star recently stirred the pot even more by posting a cryptic message on social media, claiming he still draws all eyes even “without a pencil” emphasizing the attention he gets around the league.