Milwaukee Bucks superstar forward Giannis Antetokounmpo has been at the center of NBA conversations for months, despite being sidelined with a calf strain. While the team chose to keep him at the trade deadline, the newest injury update offers positive news for Milwaukee as they look to secure his long-term future and make a strong run in the playoffs this season.
In a recent interview with ESPN’s Malika Andrews, Antetokounmpo discussed several topics, including the latest update on his injury, his future with the Milwaukee Bucks, and the ongoing trade speculation surrounding him.
Antetokounmpo offered an encouraging update on his condition, marking nearly a month out of action due to his second calf strain of the season.
Giannis on a potential return this season:
"I'm healthy today, I just got to check the boxes" pic.twitter.com/FJiLMXR95L
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) February 17, 2026
“I’m healthy today, I just got to check the boxes,” commented the Bucks superstar. “I gotta play some 1-on-1, 3-on-3, 5-on-5, and the moment I do that, I (can return).”
Giannis Antetokounmpo stays loyal to the Bucks
Feb 15, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Team World forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) of the Milwaukee Bucks looks on during the 75th NBA All Star Game at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Even while focusing on his recovery, Antetokounmpo has reiterated his loyalty to the Bucks. However, with an extension on the table this summer, trade rumors continue to swirl. If he isn’t convinced Milwaukee offers a long-term championship path, an offseason trade could be on the horizon.
"I feel good. I feel 100 percent, to be honest with you." pic.twitter.com/n8AIsHMty1
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) February 14, 2026
While Antetokounmpo shared an injury update with Andrews, the focus of their conversation was largely on his future with the Bucks. Even during All-Star Weekend, which he missed due to the injury, he offered comparable remarks regarding his health.
In both interviews, Antetokounmpo emphasized that he must “check the boxes” and go through the normal procedures all NBA players follow.
Jan 13, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) warms up before game against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
The Milwaukee Bucks will play their first game after the All-Star Break on Friday against the New Orleans Pelicans. Although Antetokounmpo stated that he feels fully healthy, the team has not yet cleared him or removed him from the injury report.
His participation in the game remains uncertain, but for now he is listed as day-to-day and is not expected to suit up against the Pelicans.