Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma addressed reports that Giannis Antetokounmpo met with teammates to discuss trade speculation, telling reporters, “I don’t really remember a time he met with us. He didn’t sit us down like the apprentice. It didn’t go down like that,” according to Jack Maloney.
The Bucks star, sidelined with a calf strain expected to keep him out roughly four weeks, has led Milwaukee with 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game. Despite his absence, the team’s locker room appears focused, with Antetokounmpo emphasizing staying on task and avoiding distractions.
NBA insider Chris Haynes reported that Giannis spoke privately with teammates to address circulating trade rumors, underscoring the importance of maintaining focus on basketball. Kuzma’s comments suggest that the meeting was informal rather than a structured team-wide discussion.
Milwaukee, currently 10-16 in the 2025-26 season, has repeatedly communicated to the league that Antetokounmpo is not available in any trade discussions. As Marc Stein reported, the franchise has told other teams, “He’s not available. We don’t want your trade pitches,” even as speculation persists across the NBA.
While Giannis previously acknowledged on Bucks Media Day that the New York Knicks could be a potential summer destination, management continues to block all trade scenarios. League sources indicate that teams are preparing for a possible future move, but Milwaukee’s firm stance limits realistic options.
Other potential suitors, including the Miami Heat, would need to part with significant assets, such as Andrew Wiggins, making a trade improbable under current circumstances. Giannis’ player option for the 2027-28 season further strengthens his leverage, ensuring any acquiring team would need re-sign assurances, according to league executives.
