Milwaukee Bucks general manager Jon Horst acknowledged Wednesday that the team is evaluating multiple paths for Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future, including a potential trade or contract extension. Speaking with The Athletic’s Eric Nehm, Horst emphasized that both options are “viable things for us to look at and consider” as the franchise navigates a pivotal offseason.
The Bucks currently hold a 31-48 record, placing them outside playoff contention and on track to miss the postseason for the first time since 2015-16. Injuries and inconsistent play have affected their campaign, including Antetokounmpo missing more games than in any other season of his career. Despite the setbacks, Horst stressed that the organization’s relationship with the star forward remains strong. “I don’t have any less love or respect or belief or gratitude toward Giannis,” Horst said.
Horst highlighted the team’s assets heading into the offseason, noting three tradable first-round picks and a high draft selection this year. He framed the situation as an opportunity to either build around Antetokounmpo with additional talent or explore trade scenarios that could reshape the roster. “We either have to draft the right player and have that be a big part of how we go forward and compete, or we have to execute a trade using the value of that,” he explained.
The Bucks GM also addressed offseason clarity, saying that while the team must define its direction, there is no immediate pressure to make a decision. Horst emphasized that conversations with Antetokounmpo will play a central role in determining alignment. “I’ve always cared what he thinks, and we gotta figure out, but I don’t think it’s foggy because it’s not one path fits all,” he said.
Horst credited head coach Doc Rivers for managing a difficult season and navigating injuries while maintaining the team’s offensive identity. He declined to comment on Rivers’ future but acknowledged that the coaching situation and Antetokounmpo’s contract are intertwined.
Antetokounmpo is in the first year of a three-year, $175 million deal with a player option for the final season. Horst affirmed that the forward’s commitment to winning in Milwaukee remains clear, stating, “I 100 percent believe that Giannis Antetokounmpo cares about winning and would love to win in Milwaukee.”
The Bucks head into the offseason with a lottery pick for the first time in a decade, signaling a critical period of decision-making that could redefine the team’s trajectory around one of the NBA’s premier talents.
