One of the most intriguing storylines throughout the NBA this Summer has been Giannis Antetokounmpo’s stance with the Milwaukee Bucks.
Will he request a trade? Will he ride it out with Milwaukee for another season, then opt out of his contract in the Summer of 2026? No one knows for sure, but a panel of ESPN insiders believes Antetokounmpo is the second-most likely player to demand a trade next, just behind New Orleans Pelicans All-Star Zion Williamson.
But what evidence is there to support that belief? One of those insiders feels strongly that Antetokounmpo isn’t leaning towards asking away from the Bucks.
Tim MacMahon Believes Giannis Isn’t Going Anywhere
ESPN insider Tim MacMahon added to the analysis, writing, “Speculation has swirled around Antetokounmpo asking out of Milwaukee for several years. If he didn’t take that drastic step in the summer, it’s unlikely to happen midseason.”
It makes sense. At this point in the offseason, teams are mostly set on their rosters, aside from fleshing out their depth. A blockbuster trade involving multiple key contributors and draft capital would likely be put on hold until executives see how their teams perform to start the season.
Even if the Bucks struggle in 2025-26, Antetokounmpo demanding a trade wouldn’t help the team he gets to, as that franchise would certainly have to surrender multiple premium draft picks and players, emptying the farm before the Greek Freak even walked through the door.
If Antetokounmpo is seriously intent on finishing his basketball career in any city other than Milwaukee, his best bet would be to depart as a free agent in the Summer of 2026 and sign with another team where they don’t have to give up assets so they can go all-in with one of the best players in the world.
Either way, Bucks fans shouldn’t worry about their franchise cornerstone leaving unceremoniously via trade demand. They should sleep soundly knowing their former Finals MVP will be wearing green for at least one more season.
