Did the Milwaukee Bucks have any legit interest in sending their franchise player to the Houston Rockets? Houston’s general manager Rafael Stone made an appearance as a guest on ESPN Radio Houston, where he cleared the air once and for all.

Per the popular GM, Giannis Antetokounmpo was highly coveted by the Rockets, as Houston was absolutely willing to get a deal done. However, general manager Jon Horst ultimately said no and Antetokounmpo was not available for potential trade scenarios.

“I deal well with Jon Horst, I really like him,” Stone said. “Jon was very clear that they weren’t doing anything. So, that was that.”

Since the beginning of this year’s offseason, rumors have circulated throughout the league on the future of Antetokounmpo. The 30-year-old said he was willing to keep an open-mind and wanted to still compete for a championship, white reiterating his love for Milwaukee and not wanting to leave.

This spurred on rampant rumors and reports of potential trade packages, teams interested, and if he would ever request a trade out of Milwaukee. In the end, unless Giannis wants it, the Bucks have no plans to trade away the player who delivered them a championship back in 2021.

According to Marc Stein, the Dallas Mavericks and P.J. Washington have been having positive talks where it is very “likely” for him to sign an extension with the organization.

The terms of the deal are four years worth a little under $90 million. Washington became eligible for this extension on Friday.

Since being traded in the middle of 2023-24 season to Dallas, the 27-year-old has emerged himself as one of the keystone players for the Mavericks. Washington has been seen as the glue guy and a solid fit for Jason Kidd’s scheme.

In his first full season with the team, Washington averaged 14.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.1 steals per game.

His previous contract saw him making roughly $14.1 million a season, this deal would see him making about $22.5 million a season. A noticeable increase to his salary each year.

When he signs this deal, this will be the biggest contract of his six-year career.

According to multiple reports, spearheaded by ESPN’s Shams Charania, Malik Beasley is no longer under federal investigation for his alleged gambling activities.

Beasley was being investigated for his involvement in prop bets and gambling on NBA games during the 2023-24 season.

With him no longer being under federal investigation, he can now rejoin the free agency pool and teams can now be assured he will be playing this upcoming regular season.

The New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons are two teams who have the most interest, and connections, to the 28-year-old.