Following the Milwaukee Bucks’ defeat by the Indiana Pacers in the first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs, Giannis Antetokounmpo has indicated openness to exploring opportunities beyond the only team he has ever played for. Despite this, sources confirm that the star forward has not formally asked for a trade. The Bucks’ surprising early elimination has intensified discussions around Giannis Antetokounmpo trade possibilities this offseason.
The Bucks have advanced past the first round of the playoffs only once since their 2021 NBA championship victory over the Phoenix Suns in six games. This recent pattern of underwhelming postseason results has added pressure on the franchise and raised questions about its direction.
Insights from Shams Charania on Giannis’s Outlook
During a recent conversation on Stephen A. Smith’s podcast, NBA insider Shams Charania shed light on Antetokounmpo’s mindset. Charania said,
“Giannis Antetokounmpo is open-minded and considering other options outside of Milwaukee,”
adding that,
He has not requested a trade yet, but he remains open-minded, from my understanding.
Despite Giannis’s openness to change, the Bucks organization is proceeding under the assumption that their superstar will return. Their approach in upcoming free agency and the draft reflects this belief, as they continue to negotiate with other free agents while promoting stability.
Charania further noted,
“One thing about Giannis is that he always plays things close to the vest. The moment he feels like in Milwaukee they’re not competing for a championship, he’s going to look around. He has said that on the record.”
Giannis’s Status and Performance This Season
Antetokounmpo’s contract ensures he will earn $54.1 million in the 2025-26 NBA season, under a three-year, $175 million extension signed in October 2023. His performance remains elite; this season, Giannis averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 0.9 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game, shooting an impressive 60.1% from the field. His excellence earned him a spot on the All-NBA First Team.
Over his career, Giannis is a nine-time All-Star, two-time NBA MVP, the 2021 Finals MVP, and a Defensive Player of the Year recipient. His career averages include 23.9 points, 9.9 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game.
Potential Moves to Support Giannis Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee
In light of the recent playoff disappointment and the uncertainty surrounding Giannis’s future, the Bucks are reportedly exploring roster upgrades. One possibility is acquiring a former LeBron James teammate to help strengthen the team and support Antetokounmpo’s pursuit of another championship. These potential additions would aim to bolster Milwaukee’s competitiveness and retain their star player.