The NBA trade deadline always brings a wave of emotions, and for Bucks fans, this past week was no exception. With a flurry of moves and some subtle social media signals from their franchise cornerstone, the fanbase is shifting its outlook-and the numbers tell the story.
Let’s start with the big name: Giannis Antetokounmpo. Just a week ago, a strong majority of Bucks fans-74%-thought the team might move on from the two-time MVP this offseason.
But that was before the trade deadline passed and before Giannis posted some cryptic-but-hopeful content online. Fast forward seven days, and the sentiment has flipped.
Now, 57% of fans believe he’ll sign an extension with Milwaukee once he becomes eligible on October 1st. That’s a significant swing in confidence, and it underscores how much the deadline moves-and perhaps Giannis’ own messaging-have impacted the fanbase's outlook.
Digging deeper, 52% of respondents said the trade deadline increased the likelihood, even if only slightly, that Giannis stays in Milwaukee next season. Meanwhile, 42% felt the deadline didn’t change the equation at all. That’s still a sizable chunk, but the optimism is clearly trending upward.
And it’s not just about Giannis. The Bucks’ front office made a few under-the-radar moves that are resonating with fans.
The signing of Cam Thomas to a minimum deal for the rest of the season? An overwhelming 83% of fans gave it a thumbs-up.
That’s the kind of low-risk, high-upside move that can quietly pay dividends down the stretch.
Even more popular was the trade that brought in Ousmane Dieng in exchange for Cole Anthony and Amir Coffey. A whopping 93% of voters approved of that deal. Dieng brings intriguing versatility and upside, and while he’s still developing, fans clearly see the potential fit within the Bucks’ system.
All of this movement has had a noticeable effect on how fans view general manager Jon Horst. His approval rating has climbed back into positive territory for the first time since early January.
Currently, 44% of fans approve of the job he’s doing, while 36% disapprove. That’s a sharp turnaround from just a week ago, when his numbers sat at 25% approval and 50% disapproval.
It’s amazing what a few smart moves and a bit of renewed hope can do for a GM’s reputation.
So as the dust settles from the trade deadline, there’s a renewed sense of belief in Milwaukee. The roster’s been tweaked, the front office is getting credit, and the Giannis watch has taken a more optimistic tone. For now, Bucks fans are feeling better about where things stand-and that might be the biggest win of all this week.