Milwaukee, WI — The Milwaukee Bucks find themselves in the middle of NBA trade season speculation, with none other than superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo at the heart of the buzz. But while the basketball world obsesses over what might come next for the two-time MVP, Bucks head coach Doc Rivers is making one thing clear: he’s not entertaining the conversation.
TMZ recently caught up with Rivers and attempted to prod him about the escalating rumors surrounding Antetokounmpo’s future. The veteran coach didn’t mince words.
“Guys, I’m not doing all that,” Rivers said curtly. “I talk to him all the time. You can move on now, thank you.”
Rivers’ terse response reflects a growing fatigue around the narrative — both within the organization and likely among the Bucks’ faithful. The speculation gained momentum after NBA insider Shams Charania reported that Antetokounmpo was open-minded about reevaluating his place in Milwaukee following another disappointing early playoff exit. The Bucks have now failed to make it out of the first round for the third consecutive year, falling to the Indiana Pacers despite a strong regular season.
Antetokounmpo, who averaged a stellar 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists this season, remains under contract, and has not publicly requested a trade. Still, league insiders believe it’s only a matter of time before he asserts more control over his future — possibly by steering the franchise toward a trade that aligns with his personal and professional goals.
According to NBA reporter Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson, Antetokounmpo has specific preferences if he were to leave:
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Staying in the Eastern Conference for logistical and branding reasons.
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Having a direct voice in roster and coaching decisions.
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Landing in a market attractive to other stars.
That shortlist of criteria has made teams like the Miami Heat and New York Knicks theoretical contenders, although reports suggest Giannis has concerns about the Heat’s organizational control under Pat Riley. Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks — fresh off winning the No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft — have also surfaced as a potential dark horse, even if they don’t check every box.
When asked if he would entertain a blockbuster trade involving the top draft prize, likely Cooper Flagg, Rivers again shut down the conversation.
“There’s some things I don’t even have to answer,” he said flatly.
The Bucks are entering a pivotal offseason. Damian Lillard’s Achilles injury leaves the team with limited flexibility, and their current roster appears a step behind true title contenders. With little cap space and few trade assets, Milwaukee’s future hinges largely on Antetokounmpo’s commitment.
While Rivers’ deflections suggest a desire to keep things internal, questions about both Antetokounmpo’s and Rivers’ futures loom. If the Greek Freak does seek greener pastures, will Rivers want to stick around for a rebuild?
For now, the message from the Bucks’ sideline is clear: trade rumors may dominate the headlines, but Doc Rivers isn’t adding fuel to the fire.
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