While the NBA trade deadline produced an exciting last 24 hours, one of the biggest potential deals didn’t happen, as Milwaukee Bucks franchise player Giannis Antetokounmpo is still in the organization. One of Antetokounmpo’s teammates provided some insight into his current thoughts.
Giannis Antetokounmpo Remains Loyal to the Bucks
Antetokounmpo’s teammate, Bobby Portis, offered further insight into his current thoughts by sharing a private message. Portis said, “Shoot, I don’t know if I’m supposed to say this, he texted me a deer emoji and a 100 sign. And I was like ‘OK, overstood.’ You feel me?”
Portis was responding to Antetokounmpo’s social media post after the NBA trade deadline passed. Antetokounmpo posted the infamous Leonardo DiCaprio speech from the movie The Wolf of Wall Street, writing, “Legends don’t chase. They attract,” seemingly declaring his loyalty to the Bucks franchise again.
It remains to be seen if Antetokounmpo feels the same way this summer, as the Bucks appear headed towards another disappointing season. While the team has a three-game winning streak, it is 12th in the Eastern Conference standings at 21-29. Even if they make it through the Play-In Tournament, they will likely have a quick first-round exit in the playoffs.
While Antetokounmpo publicly declared his intention to stay in Milwaukee, some insiders remain skeptical that he’ll ever play another meaningful game for the Bucks. The two-time league MVP and 10-time All-Star is having another incredible season, averaging 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, while posting career-high numbers in field goal percentage (64.5%) and three-point percentage (39.5%).
He’s currently sidelined indefinitely after suffering a serious calf injury.
“It’s like… ‘Oh, I don’t want to be here.’ And then, ‘Hey, look, I’m back, guys.’”
Puka Nacua says Myles Garrett is the NFL’s version of Giannis Antetokounmpo 😅
(via @PatMcAfeeShow)pic.twitter.com/pIw1dbo17l
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 7, 2026
The Bucks are going to be cautious with Antetokounmpo, given their current standing, with some insiders even speculating he could miss the rest of the season. Antetokounmpo could seek another trade this summer, as the Bucks roster simply falls short. Forward Kyle Kuzma hasn’t worked out. Big off-season acquisition Myles Turner is shooting a career low 43.8% from the field.
An off-season of uncertainty lies ahead for the Bucks. If Antetokounmpo makes it clear that he’s still open to a trade this summer, the Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, and other potential suitors will look to meet the Bucks’ asking price, while the Bucks start a rebuild.
