Giannis Antetokounmpo: Uncertain Future in Milwaukee?
The future of Giannis Antetokounmpo with the Milwaukee Bucks has been a topic of conversation during the offseason. Bucks general manager Jon Horst traveled to Athens, Greece, to meet with the team’s star, NBA champion and Finals MVP in 2021. The meeting sought to address any concerns following the elimination in the first round of the playoffs for the third consecutive year.
Horst, who has made bold moves to keep Antetokounmpo, including the acquisition of Jrue Holiday and Damian Lillard, presented his vision for the 2025-26 season, expressing his belief in the team’s ability to compete for the championship in the Eastern Conference.
Antetokounmpo’s response, however, revealed concerns about the team’s real chances of fighting for the title. The player explored the possibility of a change of course, both for himself and for the team.
Finally, Antetokounmpo returned to Milwaukee for the start of the 2025-26 season. The Bucks also reached an agreement to bring back Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Giannis’ brother, on a one-year contract for $2.9 million. Despite this agreement, uncertainty surrounds one of the league’s most outstanding players, and a definitive resolution is still pending.
Antetokounmpo’s situation has become complicated after the Bucks’ elimination in the first round of the playoffs for three consecutive seasons. The player became the second in NBA history to average 30 points in the regular season without winning a playoff series in three straight seasons.
Injuries have affected the Bucks in the postseason, preventing Antetokounmpo and Lillard from leading the team to the championship in the last two seasons. Lillard’s unexpected injury, who suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon in the 2025 playoffs, added more complications.
During the offseason, Antetokounmpo’s representative, Alex Saratsis, explored possible options for the player, including a potential trade. The New York Knicks emerged as Antetokounmpo’s preferred destination outside of Milwaukee.
The Bucks and the Knicks held talks, but failed to reach an agreement. The Bucks preferred not to trade Antetokounmpo, while the Knicks did not make an offer attractive enough.
The Knicks, under the direction of Leon Rose, have been interested in Antetokounmpo. Despite this, they made moves to strengthen the team, including the acquisition of Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns, which limited their resources to make an offer for Antetokounmpo.
Antetokounmpo has publicly expressed his desire to win another championship. In a statement, he stated that he wants to be on a team that gives him the opportunity to compete at the highest level.
In a conversation with Bucks governor Wes Edens, Antetokounmpo expressed his commitment to Milwaukee, although he later did not remember the meeting. His main focus is to compete and win, in his own words.
Sources within the Bucks feared Antetokounmpo would request a trade, but ultimately he did not. Antetokounmpo has built his image on loyalty, showing his commitment to the team through contract extensions.
Now, in his 13th season with the Bucks, Antetokounmpo has two years remaining on his current contract. The player’s future will depend on the team’s performance, as the pressure is high for this season. League teams will be watching his situation, preparing for a possible transfer.
The key moment for Antetokounmpo will be next summer, when he has one year left on his guaranteed contract. He will be able to sign a maximum four-year extension and $275 million starting October 1, 2026, which will give him greater control over his future.
The Bucks organization trusts in its ability to compete in the Eastern Conference. Antetokounmpo, who is coming off averaging 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists, will have a greater offensive responsibility after Lillard’s departure. Antetokounmpo’s ability to excel every night gives the Bucks hope. The entire league will be watching Antetokounmpo’s situation and the possibility of a window opening for his transfer before next summer.
