Giannis Reassures Bucks Amid Trade Deadline Buzz

Merlin sees Giannis Antetokounmpo telling teammates to "stress the importance of focusing on basketball and not to allow outside distractions to interfere with the process." He said he is still with the Bucks and rehabbing a strained calf but that he "can't control" whether he stays or is traded. Reports say he and his agent were "having conversations" with the team and the matter should be settled "in the coming weeks" before the Feb 5 trade deadline. Milwaukee is 10 15 through 25 games and 9 8 with Giannis but 1 7 without him. Merlin senses a crossroads. The Knicks had an "exclusive negotiating window" this summer and Giannis has been quietly evaluating the Bucks. If Milwaukee slides while he heals, the front office may be more willing to move its cornerstone. Watch the next few weeks for trade heat or a renewed commitment.