Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo said Thursday that his priority remains getting healthy and helping his team reverse its struggles, dismissing ongoing speculation about his long-term future.
Speaking to reporters for the first time since a Dec. 3 ESPN report suggested discussions between his agent, Alex Saratsis, and the Bucks regarding his future, Antetokounmpo said he has not personally engaged in any such conversations with the organization. He has been sidelined since straining his right calf during a win over the Detroit Pistons on Dec. 3.
“There’s going to be conversations you can’t control,” Antetokounmpo said. “But I haven’t had those talks with the Bucks. I’m locked in on my teammates and on getting myself healthy.”
Trade speculation has intensified amid Milwaukee’s recent struggles. The Bucks entered Thursday’s game against the Toronto Raptors with an 11–16 record, including a 2–8 mark in games Antetokounmpo has missed.
The two-time MVP missed four games last month with a left adductor strain before returning, only to suffer the calf injury in his fourth game back. Antetokounmpo, who turned 31 on Dec. 6, acknowledged that his quick return may have contributed to the setback.
“Maybe it was a mistake coming back a little early,” he said, explaining that overcompensation and increased workload may have led to the injury.
This season carries added weight for Milwaukee due to uncertainty surrounding Antetokounmpo’s future. ESPN reported before the season that the Bucks and New York Knicks discussed a potential trade in August, though talks did not progress. Antetokounmpo later said he was “locked in” with Milwaukee while acknowledging circumstances can change.
The nine-time All-NBA selection said the constant rumors have been difficult for his family and teammates, prompting informal conversations to reassure the locker room.
“We’re grown men,” Antetokounmpo said. “I’m not going to sit everyone down and talk about leaving. It’s about urgency. We’ve got to turn this around.”
Antetokounmpo added that while speculation is likely to continue, his focus remains on returning to the court and helping the Bucks win consistently again.
“At the end of the day, we’re fighting for our lives,” he said. “Rumors won’t help us win games. We’ve got to focus on basketball.”
