One of the most significant talking points around the league has centered on the future of Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Reports indicate that the former back-to-back MVP wants out of Milwaukee and has demanded a trade from the team that drafted him 15th overall in 2013. In fact, there are rumors that Antetokounmpo has identified the New York Knicks as his preferred landing spot should a trade materialize.
Antetokounmpo himself has already addressed the issue, strongly denying any and all reports that he requested a trade. The nine-time All-Star emphasized his loyalty to the Bucks — at least for now — and his desire to return from his current calf injury as soon as possible.
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Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) during an NBA game. © Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Antetokounmpo’s strong statement has given the Bucks some breathing room. However, all the drama surrounding the future of their cornerstone superstar has underscored the need for them to build a more formidable squad around Antetokounmpo — one that can compete for an NBA title while the 31-year-old is still in his prime.
A new report surfaced on Friday from senior NBA reporter Chris Haynes. According to the renowned “NBA on Prime” reporter, Antetokounmpo has “applied pressure” on the team to make its move. Haynes identified two-time All-Star Zach LaVine of the Sacramento Kings as a potential trade target for Milwaukee.
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“The Milwaukee Bucks are in desperate pursuit of trying to look out on the trade market to see if they can bring in a difference-maker type of player,” Haynes said. “Sources have relayed to me that they’re canvassing the market, and one of the guys that I’ve identified is Zach LaVine of the Sacramento Kings. He is one player they have done their homework on.
“There hasn’t been any concrete, serious talks to this point, but he’s somebody who is on their radar as Giannis Antetokounmpo has applied pressure on the Bucks to make some moves.”
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The good news for the Bucks is they still have time to make the right move. The NBA trade deadline isn’t until February, affording them more than enough time to pull the trigger on a potentially landscape-shifting move.
“The Bucks, I am told, are buyers and they are trying to figure out a way to bring in a difference-making type of a player into the roster,” Haynes continued.
LaVine is in his first full season with the Kings following his trade in February from the Chicago Bulls. The 6-foot-5 shooting guard is averaging 20.2 points on 48.7% shooting, 3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 2.7 triples per game.
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For now, Milwaukee will need to navigate the next couple of weeks with Antetokounmpo still on the shelf. He is still dealing with a strained right calf, and the team does not expect him to be back until late December at the earliest.
The Bucks are in action on Sunday. They will be looking to improve on their 11-17 record against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Related: Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Bucks Situation Gets Update Amid NBA Trade Rumors
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 20, 2025, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.