Bucks Retain Giannis Antetokounmpo at 2026 NBA Trade Deadline

Milwaukee declines to trade away franchise superstar despite mounting struggles

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The Milwaukee Bucks decided to hold onto Giannis Antetokounmpo at the 2026 NBA trade deadline, despite growing speculation that the two-time MVP could be on the move. The Bucks were unable to secure a "godfather offer" from potential suitors like the Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, or Golden State Warriors, leading them to keep Antetokounmpo for now and revisit trade talks in the offseason.

Why it matters

Antetokounmpo's future in Milwaukee has been a major storyline, as the Bucks have struggled in recent years and the superstar has hinted at a desire to compete for championships. The Bucks' decision not to trade him at the deadline means they will have to continue to build around him, but also raises questions about whether they can put a contending team around him before he potentially seeks a move elsewhere.

The details

The Bucks made a few low-risk, buy-low moves at the deadline, acquiring former Thunder prospect Ousmane Dieng and giving former Nets guard Cam Thomas a chance. However, they were unable to secure a blockbuster trade for Antetokounmpo, with potential suitors like the Timberwolves, Heat, and Warriors unable to put together an offer the Bucks deemed sufficient to part with their franchise cornerstone.

  • The 2026 NBA trade deadline passed on February 17, 2026.

The players

Giannis Antetokounmpo

A two-time NBA MVP and the greatest player in Milwaukee Bucks franchise history.

Ousmane Dieng

A former Thunder prospect acquired by the Bucks at the trade deadline, showcasing two-way potential.

Cam Thomas

A 24-year-old guard signed by the Bucks after being let go by the Brooklyn Nets, with potential as a scoring threat.

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What’s next

The Bucks will likely revisit Antetokounmpo trade talks in the offseason, as they continue to struggle and the superstar's desire to win another championship may take precedence over his desire to remain a one-team player.

The takeaway

The Bucks' decision to hold onto Giannis Antetokounmpo at the trade deadline was a risky gamble, as they now face an uncertain future in trying to build a contender around the superstar before he potentially seeks a move elsewhere. However, the team was unable to secure a "godfather offer" that would have compelled them to part with their franchise cornerstone.