With less than 48 hours before Thursday’s NBA trade deadline, here’s what we’re hearing around Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future and more.

Bucks aren’t feeling pressured to trade Giannis at deadline

As it pertains to the Greek Freak, sources say Milwaukee is not feeling pressured to find a suitable deal before Thursday. The Bucks are comfortable collecting aggressive offers from the likes of Miami, Minnesota, Golden State and others, and reassessing things after the season.

The Bucks’ due diligence on the market — and their long-term partnership with Giannis — likely won’t affect his decision to move on from the franchise, but it shows a proactive approach to finding a solution that works for both parties. There is still a possibility of Antetokounmpo being moved at the deadline, with teams like Minnesota making strategic moves to free up finances, and Golden State reportedly willing to include franchise bedrock Draymond Green in trade talks, but Milwaukee will make the best deal possible at the opportune time. 

Wolves eyeing Bulls guards?

There is a bit of confusion among league executives concerning Chicago’s series of transactions. Over the past 24 hours, the Bulls have acquired Anfernee Simons, Jaden Ivey and Mike Conley, with five other guards on the roster and no rotational-level center. However, league sources identified Minnesota as a team to watch as it pertains to the availability of Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu.

Despite their public interest in Antetokounmpo, the Wolves still have a pressing need at guard after the departure of Conley. But, again, the Bulls’ array of recent moves has left rival executives puzzled. 

Raptors still interested in Sabonis

Mutual interest still remains between the Sacramento Kings and Toronto Raptors in a deal surrounding big man Domantas Sabonis and the $135 million remaining on his contract, but the lack of interest in Raptors big Jakob Poeltl is a roadblock, sources say.

Poeltl, who signed a three-year, $84 million deal with Toronto, hasn’t played since Dec. 21 due to back issues. There is growing concern around the league about the severity of Poeltl’s back ailments, which have diminished the veteran’s value. Sacramento is also interested in wing RJ Barrett. 

Cavs committed to Harden?

During the course of negotiations between Cleveland and the LA Clippers over the past few days, the Cavaliers have signaled a willingness to give veteran guard James Harden the longer-term deal he was unable to secure with the Clippers, sources say.

Harden’s camp recently approached the organization prior to the Clippers’ late January road trip about a possible extension, but upon being rebuffed, quickly realized that a mutual split was best for both parties, sources say. 

Rockets seeking low-cost moves

The Rockets’ volume of incoming and outgoing calls has increased as Thursday’s deadline approaches, with Houston seeking low-cost moves involving second-round draft capital — and gathering intel on possible buyout candidates, sources say.

Houston is also open to being a facilitator as a third team in larger deals involving other teams. In the wake of reserve big Steven Adams’ season-ending ankle surgery, the Rockets’ need for additional center depth likely outweighs anything else, but all avenues are being considered. 

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