Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson is not on the table in potential trades for Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, sources told NBA insider Marc Stein on The Stein Line. The Hawks are prioritizing Johnson’s development and view him as a cornerstone for the franchise’s future.
Johnson, 24, is in the first year of a five-year, $150 million deal and has averaged 22.9 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 8.0 assists over 59 games this season, leading Atlanta in scoring. His agent, Rich Paul, had publicly suggested him as a trade target for the Bucks, but the Hawks have consistently rejected such ideas.
The team believes Johnson has MVP-caliber potential and wants to focus on wins rather than draft positioning, Stein reported. Atlanta currently holds the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference at 36-31 and has been building momentum with a nine-game winning streak.
Atlanta also dismissed trade interest in center Onyeka Okongwu during the season, despite inquiries from teams like the Indiana Pacers.
While Antetokounmpo, 31, is in the first year of a three-year, $175 million deal with a player option, Atlanta has made clear it will not use Johnson as a bargaining chip. The Hawks’ strategy centers on maximizing player development and competitive positioning for the playoffs rather than pursuing high-profile trades.
