NBA Trade Deadline Approaches: Giannis, AD, and More on the Move

UPDATE: The NBA trade landscape is heating up as December 25, 2025 marks a pivotal moment for teams and players across the league. With just six days until 82 players become trade-eligible, the urgency to make moves is palpable.

All eyes are on Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks and Anthony Davis of the Dallas Mavericks, two superstars whose futures are now in flux. As the Bucks struggle at 10-15 and face a potential downward spiral, discussions regarding Antetokounmpo’s future are intensifying. Following a right calf strain that sidelines him for weeks, his representative is reportedly in talks with the Bucks about whether he should stay or seek a trade.

Sources indicate that if Milwaukee’s performance continues to falter, discussions about a potential deal could escalate before the February 5 trade deadline. The Bucks, having lost 10 of their last 12 games, are in a precarious position and must evaluate whether they can still contend or if it’s time to part ways with their franchise cornerstone.

“The writing is on the wall,” a source familiar with the Bucks’ dynamics stated, emphasizing the critical nature of the ongoing talks.

Meanwhile, the Mavericks are also navigating a turbulent season at 9-16. Davis, a 10-time All-Star, has become a prime target for several teams including the Detroit Pistons and Toronto Raptors. His agent, Rich Paul, has engaged with Mavericks executives about whether the team intends to extend Davis or explore trade possibilities. With Davis eligible for a massive $275 million extension next summer, the stakes are high.

As teams prepare for the G League Showcase in Orlando from December 19-22, the event is expected to spark serious trade discussions. “This is the unofficial start to having real, high-stakes conversations,” a top executive noted, highlighting the urgency teams feel as they assess their rosters.

In addition to the Bucks and Mavericks, teams like the Atlanta Hawks and Brooklyn Nets are actively exploring trade options. The Nets are reportedly looking to utilize their cap space to make significant moves, while the Hawks are optimistic about the return of Trae Young from injury.

The clock is ticking, and with 90% of the league eligible to be moved soon, expect a flurry of activity as teams scramble to position themselves for a championship run. Keep an eye on the upcoming weeks as critical decisions are made that could reshape the NBA landscape.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the NBA trade deadline approaches.