With the NBA trade deadline set for February 5, 2026, the Milwaukee Bucks are at a crossroads regarding two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, whose availability has sparked intense speculation and trade discussions among several contending teams.
The trade market for Antetokounmpo has heated up in recent days, with the Bucks reportedly becoming more receptive to offers for their superstar. According to reports from The Athletic and CBS Sports, multiple teams, including the New York Knicks, Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, and Minnesota Timberwolves, have expressed strong interest in acquiring the 31-year-old forward. Antetokounmpo, averaging 28.0 points per game this season, remains one of the league’s most dominant players, and his potential move could reshape the playoff landscape.
A key date in these discussions is February 1, which holds particular significance for the New York Knicks. As detailed by CBS Sports, the Knicks managed the timing of Mikal Bridges’ contract extension last summer to ensure he would become trade-eligible on February 1, just four days before the deadline. This strategic move allows New York to include Bridges in any package for Antetokounmpo, providing the Bucks with a valuable asset. The Knicks’ front office, led by Leon Rose, has been meticulous in planning for a potential blockbuster trade, though any deal remains complex and uncertain.
The Golden State Warriors have emerged as another aggressive suitor, with sources indicating they are among the teams most actively pursuing Antetokounmpo. The Warriors, seeking to bolster their roster around Stephen Curry, see Antetokounmpo as a perfect fit to enhance their championship aspirations. However, Milwaukee’s asking price is reportedly high, with the Bucks demanding a substantial return of players, draft picks, and financial considerations. This has led to a cautious approach from some teams, weighing the cost against the potential reward.
From the Bucks’ perspective, trading Antetokounmpo would mark a significant shift for the franchise. Milwaukee has built its team around him since drafting him in 2013, culminating in an NBA championship in 2021. However, recent seasons have seen struggles, including a first-round playoff exit last year, prompting internal evaluations. The Bucks front office, led by general manager Jon Horst, is considering whether to rebuild around younger assets or continue competing with Antetokounmpo, whose contract situation adds urgency to the decision.
The implications of a potential trade extend beyond the involved teams. If Antetokounmpo is moved, it could trigger a domino effect across the league, influencing other trade discussions and altering the balance of power in both conferences. Teams like the Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves are monitoring the situation closely, as acquiring Antetokounmpo could instantly elevate them to title contenders. The trade deadline on February 5 is thus poised to be one of the most consequential in recent NBA history.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on Milwaukee’s next move. Whether the Bucks decide to trade Antetokounmpo or retain him, the outcome will have lasting repercussions. For now, the speculation continues, with insiders describing the odds of a trade as a ‘coin flip,’ highlighting the uncertainty and high stakes involved in this pivotal moment for the NBA.
