Giannis Confirms Bucks, Knicks Held Trade Talks Ahead of NBA Deadline Amid Rumors About Future

Giannis Antetokounmpo has confirmed reports that the Milwaukee Bucks and New York Knicks discussed a trade involving the two-time NBA MVP.

In a profile of Antetokounmpo by Lori Nickel of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, the Bucks superstar acknowledged the team's talks with the Knicks were real.

ESPN's Shams Charania reported on Oct. 7, two weeks before the start of the 2025-26 NBA season, that Antetokounmpo singled out the Knicks as the only team he would accept a trade to if the Bucks were to move him.

Charania noted the Knicks did call about Antetokounmpo at that time and they "engaged in conversations" in August, but there was never any traction on a trade.

In the lead up to the Feb. 5 trade deadline, SNY's Ian Begley reported the Knicks were going to be among the teams making an "aggressive" offer to Milwaukee for Antetokounmpo.

It's unclear how serious the Bucks were in taking offers for Antetokounmpo prior to the deadline. He seemed to indicate afterward a desire to stay in Milwaukee and try to attract players to join him.

The relationship between Antetokounmpo and the Bucks appears to be in a more delicate state now. He has stated a desire to play in games, but the Bucks have held him out due to a knee injury suffered on March 15 against the Indiana Pacers.

The NBA is currently investigating the Bucks' handling of Antetokounmpo's injury under the player participation policy.

It certainly seems like Antetokounmpo and the Bucks could be heading toward a divorce, especially given the current state of Milwaukee's roster.

Given the past interest from the Knicks, it wouldn't be a surprise if they are back in the mix this summer if he becomes available. That feels especially true if they have a disappointing run in this postseason after reaching the Eastern Conference Finals last year.