Doc Rivers Makes Giannis Antetokounmpo Decision After Raptors News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Ayomide P. Adeduyite | Last updated Jun 13, 2025 2:54 PM ET

Following the Milwaukee Bucks’ third consecutive first-round playoff exit, speculation intensified around the future of Giannis Antetokounmpo. The two-time MVP has long been the face of the franchise, but persistent postseason struggles reignited trade rumors, with several teams reportedly gauging Milwaukee’s willingness to explore a rebuild.

Among the most notable suitors, the Toronto Raptors emerged as a serious contender. The chatter gained momentum when Doug Smith of the Toronto Star reported there was mutual interest between the team and Antetokounmpo. With Toronto in search of a new centerpiece and Milwaukee facing pressure to recalibrate, the possibility of a blockbuster trade captured league-wide attention.

However, any momentum behind those talks appears to have been halted. According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst , the Bucks—led by head coach Doc Rivers and general manager Jon Horst—have presented a unified plan to keep their core intact, explicitly built around Antetokounmpo.

The organization has no intentions of trading its franchise star and remains committed to retooling the roster to remain competitive, with hopes that Damian Lillard can return from his Achilles injury before the end of next season.

Doc Rivers and Jon Horst have presented plans to keep the Bucks’ core intact around Giannis Antetokounmpo, with the goal of competing for a top-six playoff spot and the hope that Damian Lillard can return from his Achilles recovery before the end of next season, per… pic.twitter.com/28MRwj8EwP
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 13, 2025

This report comes just weeks after Antetokounmpo publicly reaffirmed his desire to compete for another NBA title in Milwaukee, stating that he hopes "to be back soon in the Finals with the Bucks." His words, combined with the front office’s stance, signal a renewed effort from both sides to push forward together.

While the offseason still holds uncertainty, this latest development may have effectively put Giannis Antetokounmpo trade rumors to rest—at least for now.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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