NBA Trade Deadline: Giannis Antetokounmpo Stays in Milwaukee

The Giannis Antetokounmpo saga has come to an end, at least for this season. After weeks of intense speculation, the Milwaukee Bucks informed other NBA franchises that they are keeping their two-time MVP through the deadline, according to Shams Charania of ESPN.

This decision puts an end to the persistent rumors that have been stirring the league for several months. The Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, and Minnesota Timberwolves were among the teams most interested in acquiring the Greek Freak.

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A Strategic Choice for Milwaukee

According to Jamal Collier of ESPN, the Bucks felt no pressure to trade their franchise player: « The Bucks do not feel pressure to trade Giannis Antetokounmpo this Thursday, team sources told ESPN hours before the deadline. Rival executives have become skeptical over the past 24 hours about the Bucks’ actual willingness to trade their star after more than 12 seasons together. »

Jake Fischer even reported that a team executive told him the Bucks were « never serious » about trading Antetokounmpo at this deadline.

The Milwaukee Bucks have indicated to teams that they are keeping Giannis Antetokounmpo through the trade deadline and will start making other trades, sources tell ESPN.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 5, 2026

Moves on the Periphery

Despite keeping their star, Milwaukee was not inactive. The Bucks immediately made a trade, sending Cole Anthony and Amir Coffey to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Nick Richards and Nigel Hayes-Davis. Anthony, signed for $13 million this summer, was only playing 15.1 minutes per game this season.

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The Future Remains Uncertain

While Giannis is staying in Milwaukee for the remainder of the 2025-2026 season, his long-term future remains unclear. The 31-year-old player, under contract until 2027, will be eligible for an extension on October 1st. This situation could reignite discussions during the next offseason, particularly with the Los Angeles Lakers who already seem to be showing interest.

The Bucks, currently 12th in the East and three wins behind the Chicago Bulls for 10th place, now hope to convince their superstar to stay by building a more competitive project around him.