The Houston Rockets are continuing to monitor Giannis Antetokounmpo’s situation in Milwaukee as the superstar’s long-term future remains in question.
According to Kelly Iko of The Athletic, Antetokounmpo “remains a target” for Houston, though there has been growing “uncertainty” surrounding his true availability in recent days.
The Bucks were eliminated in the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs by the Indiana Pacers, capping off a disappointing 48–34 season despite winning the NBA Cup in December.
Milwaukee’s decision to trade Khris Middleton to Washington during the season hinted at a shift in direction, with multiple league insiders now reporting the franchise could approach 2025–26 as a “gap year.”
Marc Stein reported that Milwaukee is evaluating the idea of retooling around Antetokounmpo rather than pushing for a title immediately, adding more intrigue to his future.
Antetokounmpo, who is under contract through 2026–27 with a player option in 2027–28, averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists on 60.1 percent shooting this season.
The Rockets finished the regular season 52–30, clinching the Southwest Division and returning to the playoffs for the first time since 2020.
Although Houston was knocked out in seven games by Golden State in the first round, the franchise’s leap forward under head coach Ime Udoka and its wealth of young talent have strengthened its appeal.
Houston possesses a core led by Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr., Fred VanVleet, and Amen Thompson, along with significant draft capital to make a competitive offer for Antetokounmpo without gutting the roster.
The Raptors are also reportedly in the mix, with “mutual interest” between Antetokounmpo and Toronto’s front office.
League executives continue to watch whether Milwaukee is willing to engage in serious talks, especially with multiple teams expressing interest ahead of the offseason.
