The Milwaukee Bucks are clearly feeling the pressure.
With the team sitting at 17-24 despite Giannis Antetokounmpo’s continued brilliance-he’s averaging 28.8 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game-Milwaukee is aggressively looking to reshape the roster ahead of the February 5 trade deadline. According to league sources, the Bucks are targeting a handful of high-impact players: Ja Morant (Grizzlies), Zach LaVine (Kings), Andrew Wiggins (Heat), Miles Bridges (Hornets), and Jerami Grant (Trail Blazers).
That’s not just a wish list-it’s a clear signal that the Bucks are trying to load up around their franchise cornerstone. And given their current position outside even the play-in picture, it’s not hard to see why.
A Desperate Push to Support Giannis
Since their 2021 championship run, Milwaukee has struggled to replicate that postseason magic. The Bucks have won just one playoff series over the past three years and have bowed out in the first round three straight times. That kind of postseason stagnation can wear on a superstar, and the Bucks are clearly trying to avoid any scenario where Antetokounmpo starts questioning his future in Milwaukee.
The front office knows what’s at stake. They’re not waiting for the offseason-they’re moving now.
Big Names, Big Contracts
Let’s talk logistics. The players Milwaukee is eyeing aren’t just talented-they’re expensive.
Ja Morant is earning $39.4 million this season. Zach LaVine tops the list at $47.5 million.
Wiggins is at $28.2 million, Bridges at $25 million, and Grant at $32 million. LaVine and Wiggins also hold player options for next season, adding another layer of complexity to any potential deal.
But Milwaukee isn’t shying away from the financial side. They’re exploring all avenues to bring in another star or two to help Giannis carry the load.
The Klutch Connection
There’s also a notable agency angle here. LaVine, Bridges, and Grant are all represented by Rich Paul of Klutch Sports Group, who already has two clients on the Bucks roster: Taurean Prince and Gary Trent Jr. Paul is reportedly aware of Milwaukee’s interest in his trio of clients, which could help facilitate talks-or at least keep the lines of communication open.
Ja Morant’s Uncertain Future in Memphis
Perhaps the most intriguing name on the Bucks’ radar is Ja Morant. The two-time All-Star reportedly has mutual interest with the Grizzlies in finding a new home. Tensions have reportedly flared between Morant and Memphis head coach Tuomas Iisalo, particularly over Iisalo’s approach to rotations-short shifts and mass substitutions that have disrupted Morant’s rhythm and limited his ability to get into a flow on the court.
If the Grizzlies are truly open to moving Morant, Milwaukee’s interest makes sense. He’s a dynamic playmaker who could take pressure off Giannis, inject pace into the offense, and give the Bucks a legitimate second star-something they’ve sorely lacked since their title run.
Miami’s In the Mix Too
Meanwhile, the Heat are reportedly testing the waters on Andrew Wiggins and are also said to have interest in both Morant and Antetokounmpo. But let’s be clear: Giannis isn’t going anywhere unless he asks out-and there’s no indication he’s done that. Still, Miami’s involvement complicates the trade landscape and could drive up the asking price for any of these players.
What Comes Next?
With the trade deadline fast approaching, all eyes will be on the Bucks’ front office. Can they pull off a deal that meaningfully moves the needle?
Will they land a star like Morant or LaVine? Or will they pivot to more complementary pieces?
Whatever happens, one thing is certain: Milwaukee is not standing pat. They’re pushing all their chips to the center of the table in an effort to maximize the Giannis window. And with the East as competitive as ever, they don’t have time to waste.