Bucks Explore Draft Options to Pair with Giannis

Milwaukee weighs top prospects and potential blockbuster trades to build around its superstar

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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As the Milwaukee Bucks hover around the top-10 picks in the 2026 NBA Draft, the team faces an uncertain path forward. With Giannis Antetokounmpo battling injuries, the Bucks must decide whether to make a playoff push or prioritize the draft and improving their lottery odds. The article explores several scenarios for the Bucks, including drafting top prospects like Cameron Boozer, Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, and Caleb Wilson, or potentially trading for a proven star like LaMelo Ball or Kyrie Irving to pair with Giannis.

Why it matters

The Bucks' offseason decisions will have major implications for the franchise's future and Giannis Antetokounmpo's long-term commitment. Adding the right young talent through the draft or via trade could help Milwaukee contend for championships, but the wrong moves could jeopardize their superstar's future with the team.

The details

The Bucks currently have the 9th-best odds in the 2026 NBA Draft, giving them a roughly 50% chance of landing the 9th overall pick. If they keep that pick, they could target players like Dailyn Swain, a two-way wing who could complement Giannis, or a top guard prospect like Ebuka Okorie, Mikel Brown Jr., or Keaton Wagler. However, the Bucks could also explore trading the pick for a proven star like LaMelo Ball or Kyrie Irving to immediately improve the roster around Antetokounmpo.

  • The 2026 NBA Draft is scheduled for February 14, 2026.
  • The Bucks' current lottery odds are projected as the 9th-best in the league.

The players

Giannis Antetokounmpo

The Milwaukee Bucks' superstar forward who has battled injuries this season, raising questions about the team's direction.

Cameron Boozer

A top prospect in the 2026 NBA Draft class, projected as a potential No. 1 overall pick.

Darryn Peterson

A highly touted 2-guard prospect in the 2026 NBA Draft class, considered one of the best guard prospects in years.

AJ Dybantsa

A skilled wing prospect in the 2026 NBA Draft class, viewed as a potential top-4 pick.

Caleb Wilson

Another wing prospect in the 2026 NBA Draft class, who could be a top-4 pick and complement Giannis.

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What they’re saying

“Because he was not obsessed with them, he wasn't afraid of them... He wasn't afraid of anyone.”

— Mirin Fader, Author (Twitter (@beyondtheRK)

What’s next

The Bucks will need to decide whether to make a playoff push or focus on the draft in the final stretch of the season, as Giannis Antetokounmpo's health and future with the team hangs in the balance.

The takeaway

The Bucks face a critical offseason as they look to build a championship contender around Giannis Antetokounmpo. Their decisions on the draft and potential trades could determine the long-term direction of the franchise and Antetokounmpo's future in Milwaukee.