Giannis Antetokounmpo Denies Trade Talks Amid Bucks Turmoil

Giannis Antetokounmpo says he has not personally talked with the Bucks about a trade, telling reporters "I personally have not had the conversation with the Bucks" and "I'm still locked in. Locked in on my teammates." He allowed his agent might be in discussions. Giannis has been out since Dec. 3 with a calf injury, and Milwaukee sit 11 wins and 16 losses, so his availability is central to any realistic playoff hopes. Merlin sees smoke and a crossroad. Reporters like Shams Charania say "the writing is on the wall" and that Antetokounmpo and his representation "opened discussions." If he returns healthy and the Bucks improve, the rumors cool. If the team stalls, those conversations will grow louder as the Feb 5 deadline nears.