Milwaukee Bucks on the Clock with Giannis Antetokounmpo

The Milwaukee Bucks are reportedly under pressure to secure the future of their star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo, with a deadline looming until the end of the 2025-26 season. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, there is a prevailing opinion among league executives that Antetokounmpo will only start the 2026-27 season with a team he believes can contend for a championship.

So far, rival franchises are not receiving any clear indication that the Bucks are considering offers for the two-time MVP. However, should Antetokounmpo express a desire for a trade, sources suggest he would prefer the New York Knicks as his next destination.

Antetokounmpo, who has averaged an impressive 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists over 17 games this season, is currently sidelined due to a right calf injury, which is expected to keep him out of action for about four weeks. Coach Doc Rivers has publicly dismissed claims of trade discussions involving Antetokounmpo, despite recent reports indicating conversations are happening.

In discussions surrounding his future, Antetokounmpo acknowledged the temptation of trade rumors, stating, "There's going to be a lot of people that are going to approach me, or approach my agent; but at the end of the day, ultimately, I'm going to make a decision. My decision today is that I'm here." He also hinted at the Knicks being a focus during these discussions.

Furthermore, reports indicated that the Bucks and Knicks had preliminary trade talks during the offseason. The Bucks, however, made it clear that they were not willing to part ways with Antetokounmpo unless the Knicks presented a compelling offer, which they believe did not materialize. The Knicks currently hold the second position in the Eastern Conference after a strong 16-7 start to the season, amplifying their interest in acquiring the superstar before the trade deadline on February 5.

As both teams navigate the implications of these trade talks, the Bucks are aware that they face a critical window to convince Antetokounmpo to remain a cornerstone of their franchise.