If there’s one thing we’ve learned about the Philadelphia 76ers this season, it’s that they’re not playing the short game. As the NBA trade deadline looms on February 5, the Sixers are making it clear: VJ Edgecombe is off the table-even in hypothetical deals involving a generational talent like Giannis Antetokounmpo.
That’s not just front office posturing. According to league sources, Philly isn’t entertaining the idea of including the rookie phenom in any trade discussions, even those involving Antetokounmpo, who reportedly has eyes on teaming up with Tyrese Maxey in the City of Brotherly Love. Edgecombe, by all accounts, is viewed as a cornerstone piece-a foundational player the Sixers are building around, not bargaining with.
And while the buzz around Giannis continues to pick up steam, there’s no indication that the Sixers have reached out to Milwaukee to explore a potential deal. That’s notable, especially given Antetokounmpo’s reported interest in playing alongside Maxey and Joel Embiid.
Chemistry matters, and Giannis already has a rapport with both stars. But Philly’s front office seems committed to its current trajectory, especially after a better-than-expected first half of the season.
Meanwhile, the Bucks are in unfamiliar territory. Sitting 12th in the Eastern Conference, Milwaukee is facing the very real possibility of missing the playoffs altogether.
After three straight first-round exits, the frustration is clearly mounting. Giannis, a two-time MVP and one of the most dominant forces the league has ever seen, is ready for a new chapter.
The Bucks are listening to offers-and with no no-trade clause in his contract, they have full control over where he might land.
Despite being sidelined for the next four to six weeks with a right calf injury, Antetokounmpo remains one of the most sought-after players in the league. He’s appeared in 30 games this season, averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game-numbers that speak for themselves. Even at less than 100%, he’s a game-changer.
Let’s not forget the résumé: 10-time All-Star, two-time MVP, Finals MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and a lock for the Hall of Fame. He’s one of the NBA’s 75 greatest players for a reason, with career averages of 24.0 points, 9.9 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game. He’s also under contract for two more seasons, with a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28.
Now, imagine a lineup featuring Giannis, Embiid, Maxey, and Edgecombe. That’s not just a playoff team-that’s a title contender.
But for now, it’s just a dream scenario. The Sixers haven’t made it past the second round during the Embiid era, and while adding Giannis would undoubtedly change the calculus, Philly is staying disciplined.
They’re betting on their young core and the chemistry that’s starting to click.
With less than a week until the trade deadline, all eyes will be on Milwaukee. Will the Bucks finally pull the trigger on a Giannis deal? And if so, where does the Greek Freak land?
One thing’s for sure: it won’t be in Philadelphia-not if it means giving up VJ Edgecombe.