As the 2026 NBA trade deadline came and went without a blockbuster move for two of the league’s biggest stars, Ja Morant and Giannis Antetokounmpo remained with their respective teams – despite heavy speculation that either could be dealt before the NBA trade deadline.

Milwaukee opted not to trade Giannis Antetokounmpo as the deadline expired, keeping the two-time MVP with the Bucks for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. Reports indicate that while there was significant interest from teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks and Miami Heat, no offer met Milwaukee’s steep asking price – which reportedly included elite young talent and multiple first-round picks. 

The 31-year-old superstar has spent his entire 13-year NBA career with the Bucks, leading them to an NBA championship in 2021. Despite the franchise’s struggles this season, Giannis remains under contract and committed to Milwaukee through the deadline, even amid ongoing speculation about his future beyond this campaign. 

Two-time All-Star Ja Morant was also the subject of trade rumors up to deadline day – with teams like the Kings, Timberwolves and Heat reportedly showing interest – but no serious offer materialized that both Memphis and prospective suitors could agree on. 

Morant, 26, has missed time this season with an elbow injury and has seen his market value fluctuate as a result, factors that played into the Grizzlies ultimately retaining him rather than concluding a deadline deal. 

For Milwaukee, keeping Giannis keeps the franchise centerpiece in place, but it also raises questions about the team’s direction, given its current standing and playoff aspirations. 

For Memphis, Morant’s future is still unresolved and a broader roster shakeup is already underway. Retaining him now positions Memphis to re-evaluate its rebuild and potentially revisit his status in the offseason.