Giannis hints at trade, questions commitment as Bucks season nears

Giannis Antetokounmpo raised fresh questions about his future with the Milwaukee Bucks this week, saying he expects a trade could happen even as he prepares for the 2025-26 season and pushing back on an owner’s claim that he is committed to the franchise. The comments, made at Bucks media day and during appearances in Greece as the regular season approaches, deepen uncertainty after a summer of roster turnover that left Milwaukee looking markedly different from recent title contenders.

“Look, I hope it never happens, but I’m expecting it too,” Antetokounmpo said when asked about the possibility of being traded. He added that while he has given a lot to the team, the franchise may do what it believes is best for its future. He also urged the organization to let him play more as a creator, saying he needs the green light to initiate offense rather than serve only as a finisher.

Tension intensified when Bucks owner Wes Edens said he had a June conversation with Antetokounmpo in which the superstar expressed commitment to Milwaukee and to having his family in the city. Antetokounmpo contradicted that account roughly an hour later, saying he could not recall such a meeting. The...