Giannis Watch: Will the Bucks Make a Franchise-Altering Move Before the Deadline?
With the trade deadline just around the corner, all eyes are on Milwaukee-and more specifically, on Giannis Antetokounmpo. The two-time MVP and former Finals hero is at the center of swirling trade rumors, and while the league has been relatively quiet so far, that could change in a heartbeat if the Bucks decide to shake things up.
So far, the only major move this season has been Trae Young heading to Washington-a deal that’s already hit a snag with Young sidelined by an MCL sprain. But the real domino everyone’s waiting on? Giannis.
The Bucks are in rough shape. Sitting at 18-26 and 11th in the East, Milwaukee has underperformed all season. That’s not the kind of record that inspires confidence in a deep playoff run, and it raises serious questions about the direction of the franchise-especially with their superstar now dealing with another injury.
Giannis suffered a non-contact right calf injury during Friday’s game against Denver, and he’s expected to miss four to six weeks. It’s the latest in a string of lower leg issues that have nagged him over his 13-year career. And while the injury is concerning, it hasn’t stopped teams from lining up, ready to pounce if the Bucks decide to move him.
The Heat are one of those teams. Miami has had its eyes on Giannis for years, and with a mix of expiring contracts, young pieces, and draft capital, they have the tools to make a compelling offer. The question is: will Milwaukee pick up the phone?
Giannis is still putting up elite numbers-28 points, 10 boards, and 5.6 assists per game, while shooting a blistering 64.5% from the field and nearly 40% from deep. Even in limited action, the 31-year-old is showing why he remains one of the most valuable players in the league. If he does hit the trade market, he instantly becomes the most coveted piece available.
There’s chatter that a move could happen sooner rather than later. NBA insider Marc J.
Spears said Monday that he believes Giannis may have already played his final game in a Bucks uniform. He floated the Atlanta Hawks as a potential landing spot, suggesting a deal centered around an unprotected first-round pick from the Pelicans.
That said, Miami isn’t going away quietly. The Heat have also been loosely linked to Ja Morant, but there’s little indication they’re willing to go all-in on the 26-year-old guard. Their focus appears to be on preserving cap space for a true game-changer-and Giannis fits that bill.
He’s earning $54.13 million this season, with $58.46 million coming next year and a $62.79 million player option after that. Any team trading for him will need to navigate a complex financial puzzle, but for a player of his caliber, most front offices would gladly take on the challenge.
The Bucks, meanwhile, are staring down a franchise-defining decision. Keep Giannis and hope to right the ship? Or pivot now, recoup assets, and start laying the groundwork for the next era?
The clock is ticking. The trade deadline hits on February 5 at 3:00 p.m.
ET. Whether Milwaukee chooses to hold firm or make a seismic move, the next few days could reshape the Eastern Conference-and the league-for years to come.