
Giannis Antetokounmpo Addresses Trade Rumors While Focused on Recovery
Giannis Antetokounmpo clarifies that he is not directly discussing his future with the Milwaukee Bucks as he prioritizes recovery from a calf injury.
Giannis Antetokounmpo doesn’t want to speculate about his future with the Milwaukee Bucks. On Thursday, the two-time MVP addressed rumors that he and his agent were contemplating whether Milwaukee was still the right fit for him.
Antetokounmpo claimed he was unaware of a report earlier this month about conversations between his agent, Alex Saratsis, and the Bucks regarding his NBA future. The Bucks’ star player emphasized that his main concern is getting healthy and that his agent can engage in discussions independently of his involvement.
“I didn’t hear about the report,” Antetokounmpo told reporters. “If my agent is speaking with the Bucks about it, he is his own person and can have those conversations. At the end of the day, I don’t work for my agent; my agent works for me. Naturally, discussions will take place between him and the Bucks, as well as with other players, teams, and executives in the league.”
Antetokounmpo has been sidelined since injuring his calf against the Detroit Pistons on December 3. Initially anticipated to be out for two to four weeks, he now suggests that a four to six weeks recovery timeline is more realistic. Antetokounmpo, 31, expressed concern that he returned too soon from a previous adductor strain, leading to the calf injury shortly after.
“Maybe it was a mistake to come back a bit early; that can lead to overcompensating injuries,” Antetokounmpo explained. “Overexertion or playing many games within a short span can contribute to such injuries.”
Back in August, ESPN reported on potential trade discussions between the Bucks and the New York Knicks concerning Antetokounmpo. Although those talks didn’t evolve, speculation about a future trade has heightened.
“I’m currently being discussed more than ever in my career,” Antetokounmpo remarked. “I sit at home with my kids, and every time I turn on the TV, it’s like, ‘Oh, Giannis is going to the Memphis Grizzlies,’ or ‘Giannis is going to the Detroit Pistons.’ Honestly, it’s amusing for me.”
The Bucks have struggled to reproduce the success that led them to become 2021 NBA champions, holding an 11-16 record heading into their game against the Toronto Raptors. Antetokounmpo insists that he will not leverage his status to demand results from his teammates.
“I will never hold a meeting to tell my teammates, ‘If we don’t win, I’m leaving,’” Antetokounmpo stated. “They are all adults and understand the realities. We must collectively find urgency. It’s a critical moment for who we want to be moving forward.”
Antetokounmpo also mentioned that he has had discussions regarding the rumors with both his coach and teammates, noting their interest as it pertains to their careers.
“I have communicated with the coach and spoken with players about these rumors as they may also impact their lives and careers. I am transparent with them about my situation.”


