The Milwaukee Bucks are not planning to trade Giannis Antetokounmpo this season, according to NBA insider Michael Scotto, who spoke on YES Network on Sunday, December 14.
Scotto reported that the Bucks’ front office continues to build around their two-time MVP, emphasizing that Giannis “loves Milwaukee” and has no current intentions of leaving the team.
The Bucks acquired Myles Turner in the offseason and stretched Damian Lillard’s contract, signaling a commitment to strengthening the roster around Giannis, who is sidelined with a right calf strain expected to keep him out roughly four weeks.
Scotto added that rival executives exploring potential trades for Giannis “don’t get the sense that he’s looking to pull the trigger right now,” and that any trade would depend on offseason decisions regarding his contract extension.
Milwaukee currently sits at 11-16, relying on contributions from Kevin Porter Jr., who averages 19.3 points and 6.9 assists, and Ryan Rollins, the team’s most improved player, while Giannis leads the Bucks with 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game.
Despite trade speculation, league insiders, including Marc Stein, emphasize that deals would require substantial returns. Miami has emerged as a potential suitor, capable of offering draft assets, young talent like Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Kel’el Ware, along with salary fillers such as Terry Rozier.
Scotto noted that if Giannis remains with Milwaukee through the trade deadline, the team could pursue a major contract extension in the offseason, which would clarify the superstar’s long-term intentions.
The Bucks’ struggles highlight their reliance on Giannis, as Porter Jr. and Rollins have stepped up, but the team continues to face challenges maintaining consistency without their star forward.
Chris Haynes reported that Giannis has spoken to teammates, urging focus on basketball and discouraging distractions related to trade speculation.
With a player option for the 2027-28 season, Giannis holds leverage that complicates potential trades, requiring any interested team to plan for both immediate contention and long-term commitment.
League executives confirm that Milwaukee’s stance is firm: Giannis remains off-limits, and while trade chatter persists, the Bucks’ front office is prioritizing a core built around their reigning star.
