The Milwaukee Bucks are expected to keep star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo past Thursday’s 3 p.m. ET trade deadline despite heavy league-wide speculation.
Team sources told ESPN the Bucks feel no internal “pressure” to move their franchise star, leading rival executives to question whether Milwaukee was ever truly prepared to complete a deal.
The Golden State Warriors exited the mix late Wednesday after acquiring Kristaps Porzingis from the Atlanta Hawks, signaling an end to their pursuit of Antetokounmpo.
The Minnesota Timberwolves and Miami Heat remain potential options, though most indications point to this situation extending into the offseason.
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Antetokounmpo has desired a change of scenery for months.
Milwaukee listened to and countered offers over the past week, an uncommon step for the organization, while still holding out hope of retaining him long term and exploring roster upgrades instead.
The Bucks sit 12th in the Eastern Conference, three games behind the Chicago Bulls.
If talks move into the offseason, Antetokounmpo could gain more control over his future, with extension eligibility on Oct. 1 and only one fully guaranteed year left on his contract.
Bucks Ready To Let Giannis Antetokounmpo Situation Wait Until Offseason https://t.co/pvOvFQc2o1
— RealGM (@RealGM) February 5, 2026
