The Milwaukee Bucks are heading into the February trade deadline with a clear mindset: it’s time to get serious about surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo with the kind of high-level help that can steady a shaky season-and maybe reignite a championship window that’s started to flicker.
According to league sources, Milwaukee has its eyes on two notable names: Kings guard Zach LaVine and Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant. Both players are represented by Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, a familiar figure around the Bucks’ front office.
That connection matters-especially in a league where relationships often shape the trade market as much as stats do. The Bucks already have Klutch clients Gary Trent Jr. and Taurean Prince on the roster, and sources say LaVine and Grant are well aware of Milwaukee’s interest.
Let’s start with LaVine. The two-time All-Star is averaging 20.2 points per game this season, shooting an efficient 48.7% from the field and a strong 38.5% from three.
That kind of scoring punch could be a major boost for a Bucks offense that’s struggled to find rhythm without Giannis in the lineup. Of course, LaVine is currently sidelined with an ankle injury, which complicates things-but doesn’t necessarily cool Milwaukee’s interest.
When healthy, he brings a dynamic shot-creating ability that the Bucks could use, especially in late-game situations where the offense has looked stagnant.
Then there’s Jerami Grant, who’s quietly putting up 20.0 points per game for Portland. He’s dealing with some Achilles soreness, but when on the floor, he offers a versatile skill set that fits well alongside Giannis.
Grant can defend multiple positions, stretch the floor, and create his own shot-exactly the kind of two-way wing Milwaukee has lacked since their 2021 title run. He’s not a superstar, but he’s the kind of high-level role player who can swing a playoff series.
And let’s be honest: the Bucks need something to swing their season. They’re sitting at 12-18, currently outside the playoff picture in the Eastern Conference.
Since winning it all in 2021, they’ve only made it past the first round once. That’s not the trajectory you want when you’ve got one of the best players on the planet anchoring your franchise.
Speaking of Giannis, he’s currently out with a right calf strain. And while sources indicate the Bucks have no plans to move him unless he asks out, the front office knows what’s at stake. Moves like these aren’t just about improving the roster-they’re about sending a message to their franchise cornerstone: we’re still all-in.
This trade deadline could be pivotal. Milwaukee doesn’t have time to wait for things to magically turn around. If they want to keep Giannis happy-and keep their championship hopes alive-they’ll need to get aggressive, get creative, and get better.
The clock’s ticking.