Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Deadline Watch, Bucks Stand Firm

Merlin sees Giannis Antetokounmpo still not forcing a move even as trade chatter grows. Reports say he would have to make a "forceful" request to be moved before the Feb 5 deadline, and the Bucks insist "Our intent is to build this team and continue to add, not subtract." Milwaukee is 11th in the East at 13 19, and the franchise has limited draft capital to remake the roster quickly. Merlin notes the practical limits. Salary math and past trades make a blockbuster swap difficult, though names like Zach LaVine and Jerami Grant are on the radar. Giannis scrubbed his socials and told teammates it was to declutter, yet another early playoff exit could test his patience. The Bucks may try a midseason add to steady the ship, but the story is far from finished.