While several teams explored the possibility of trading for Ja Morant, the Milwaukee Bucks showed genuine interest in acquiring the guard before the deadline. Insider Jake Fischer confirmed this in the latest edition of The Stein Line, questioning whether Milwaukee’s pursuit was driven by a desire to pair Morant with Giannis Antetokounmpo or to position him as a potential franchise successor.
With all the speculation around Giannis potentially being traded mid-season, the Bucks may have felt the need to either go all in on another star or secure a potential successor for their own. In the end, Milwaukee’s pursuit of Morant was put on hold, but it is almost certain to resurface during the summer.
The Milwaukee Bucks continue to stress, publicly, that they have no intention of trading Giannis Antetokounmpo. That said, the team actively explored trade offers for their superstar ahead of the deadline like never before. While the odds were low, there was still a real possibility that Antetokounmpo could have been moved.
Ja Morant’s fit with or without Giannis Antetokounmpo in the Bucks
Dec 26, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) handles the ball as Milwaukee Bucks guard Ryan Rollins (13) and forward Kyle Kuzma (18) defend during the fourth quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Adding a high-profile guard with star power might have signaled to Giannis that the team is serious about contending. In previous seasons, similar moves helped convince him to commit long-term, as seen with Jrue Holiday and Damian Lillard. While a trade for Morant might not have delivered instant results, it would have been a meaningful step in that direction.
If the Milwaukee Bucks moved on from Giannis Antetokounmpo and brought in Ja Morant, they would begin a rebuild with a top-tier star already on the roster.
Even while struggling through a down year due to injuries, Morant remains a two-time All-Star and All-NBA player. At 26, he is still in his prime and has plenty of time to bounce back and make a major impact.
Oct 31, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) drives to the basket as Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12)and center Zach Edey (14) defends during the first half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
If the Milwaukee Bucks opt for a full rebuild, Ja Morant could serve as a key cornerstone for that effort. No matter how the season wraps up, chatter about a potential Morant move is likely to resurface in the months ahead.
As they navigate Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future, it seems highly likely they will target Morant once more, especially if they have a chance to secure him at a bargain.