NBA Rumors: The Bucks Fear Giannis Antetokounmpo's Short-Term Departure

NBA Rumors: According to information published by Sports Illustrated, one of the big storylines of the 2025-26 NBA season will be the future of Giannis Antetokounmpo and the possibility of him being traded by the Milwaukee Bucks. The article, written by Chris Mannix, analyzes the main uncertainties of the new season, including the situation of the Greek player, the anticipated rise of Victor Wembanyama, and LeBron James' adaptation to the new project of the Lakers alongside Luka Doncic.

The American media points out that there is a growing concern in Milwaukee regarding Antetokounmpo's continuity, especially after the recent report from ESPN that revealed discussions between the Bucks and the New York Knicks last summer. Although those negotiations did not come to fruition, Sports Illustrated confirms that they did take place, which in itself is significant.

Antetokounmpo himself, during media day, avoided committing to his long-term future and reiterated that his main goal remains winning another championship. However, the sports landscape in Milwaukee seems more uncertain than in previous years. The team will face the new season with the addition of Myles Turner and an exterior rotation full of doubts, which could complicate their aspirations in a weaker-than-usual Eastern Conference.

The Knicks' Situation

According to the article, if the Bucks start poorly and hover around a 50% win rate by Christmas, the pressure could increase. Although logic suggests the franchise would wait until summer to make a decision, several teams are monitoring any developments. Among the potential suitors, Sports Illustrated mentions Houston, San Antonio, New York, Detroit, and Orlando, with Oklahoma City officially ruled out but with the potential to alter the landscape if they decide to get involved.

Antetokounmpo's future will largely depend on his own willingness. With one more year on his contract after this season, no team would make a move without the assurance that the player wants to join their project. Nevertheless, the article recalls that last season Miami showed that even a superstar with a maximum contract can be traded during the season. And, in Mannix's words, “Jimmy Butler doesn’t compare with Antetokounmpo.”

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rumores NBA: Los Bucks temen la marcha a corto plazo de Giannis Antetokounmpo