Milwaukee Bucks sources downplayed speculation surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future Wednesday, telling The Athletic there has been no formal trade request despite an ESPN report indicating discussions between the star and team officials.
An ESPN report stated Antetokounmpo and his representation are having conversations with the Bucks about the organization’s future. Team sources acknowledged the discussions but indicated the severity of the situation has been overstated.
The Bucks entered Wednesday with a 9-13 record, sitting 11th in the Eastern Conference. Antetokounmpo has missed six of Milwaukee’s 22 games this season, including four consecutive contests with a left adductor strain.
Antetokounmpo’s social media accounts were scrubbed at the end of November, adding fuel to speculation about his future. The only non-sponsored content remaining includes championship highlights, family images and correspondence with the late Kobe Bryant.
The two-time MVP is averaging 30.6 points, 10.7 rebounds and 6.4 assists in 30.8 minutes per game. The Bucks are 1-5 this season without Antetokounmpo on the floor.
Milwaukee lost to the Washington Wizards on Monday after blowing a 16-point second-half lead. Antetokounmpo declined to speak with reporters following the defeat.
“The reason that this is out is because we’re not playing well,” Doc Rivers said. “When we started out the season, I heard guys saying, ‘Man, they’re going to be really good.’ So, let’s just call a spade a spade. We’re not playing well.”
Starting point guard Kevin Porter Jr. has missed 19 of the team’s first 22 games with injuries. The Bucks rank 16th in offense and 23rd in defense entering Wednesday.
ESPN first reported Antetokounmpo expressed interest in the New York Knicks during the offseason. The Athletic confirmed those talks never gained traction.
December 15 marks the date when teams can trade players who signed summer contracts, typically increasing league-wide trade discussions.