Giannis Antetokounmpo is confirmed to stay with the Milwaukee Bucks following the February 5 NBA trade deadline, putting an end to ongoing speculation. The Bucks responded lightly by playfully addressing ESPN’s top NBA insider, Shams Charania, who first ignited trade rumors.
Shams Charania’s Role in Trade Rumors and Future Discussions
Shams Charania, slated to participate in the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend celebrity game, had initially reported talks between the Bucks and New York Knicks over a possible Giannis trade. This fueled the anticipation around the deadline, though no deal materialized.
The Bucks referenced Charania’s involvement, posting on X,
“Just In: Conversations have started about Shams Charania’s future, and discussing whether the ESPN Senior NBA Insider’s best fit is staying on Giannis’ All-Star Celebrity team or elsewhere.”
Ongoing Speculation Expected to Continue into Offseason
Although the trade deadline passed without a move, discussions regarding Giannis’s status are predicted to return during the upcoming offseason. The Bucks, alongside other teams such as the New York Knicks, may revisit trade talks as the summer approaches.
Just In: Conversations have started about @ShamsCharania’s future, and discussing whether the ESPN Senior NBA Insider’s best fit is staying on Giannis’ All-Star Celebrity team or elsewhere. pic.twitter.com/IS6XMlQSPf
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) February 5, 2026
