Giannis Antetokounmpo remains with the Milwaukee Bucks as he hasn’t requested a trade, ensuring stability through the mid-season deadline. Milwaukee’s offseason moves include re-signing Bobby Portis to a three-year, $44 million deal. A key focus now is potentially re-signing Brook Lopez, who has been pivotal beside Antetokounmpo for seven seasons, including their 2021 championship run. Lopez’s dual threat of rim protection and three-point shooting has been vital for the Bucks' spacing.

The Lakers are reportedly keen on Lopez, alongside Deandre Ayton, making the competition for Lopez's services fierce. This scenario may favor the Bucks in retaining Lopez if the Lakers and Warriors pursue other options like Al Horford, which could thin the market for Lopez significantly.