The 76ers have completely shut down VJ Edgecombe due to Giannis Antetokounmpo trade speculation

Maybe we have two consecutive seasons where the MVP candidate changes. Luka Doncic was traded before the trade deadline last season in one of the most shocking trades of all time. This year, however, the megastore will be a little more telegraphed. Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has officially requested a trade, and the team is now fielding trade offers for the former MVP.

With Antetokounmpo in their sights, many teams are willing to move heaven and earth to land the former MVP. That includes Philadelphia 76erswho could use a boost the size of Giannis. however, there is one player that the Sixers aren’t willing to make any trades, even for Antetokounmpo: rookie VJ Edgecombe.

“I spoke with a league source this morning who completely dismissed the idea that the Sixers will trade VJ Edgecombe in any move, including the speculative deals people are talking about for Giannis,” Kyle Neubeck reported for X. “It goes without saying, but he’s part of the foundation in Philly.”

Reporting by Mark Stein and Jake Fisher connected Giannis to the 76ers, star quarterback Tyrese Maxey.

“League sources say Philadelphia has also not contacted Milwaukee about a possible Antetokounmpo deal after a better-than-expected first half, but The Stein Line has learned there is a possibility of teaming up with Tirese Mackey — who, like Giannis, works with NBA standout Hanlen — coach of Antetokounmpo76 on Drew7. Radar.”

That leaves any talk of a Giannis-to-76ers trade in an odd place. If Philadelphia plays the negotiations right, they will absolutely seek Edgecomb in a trade. One of the most promising rookies in his class, Edgecombe will be the fill-in that Milwaukee needs. However, for the same reason, Philadelphia will not want to trade the rookie.

Edgecombe is averaging 15.1 points per game this season while shooting 42.6% from the field and 36.9% from deep. He also added 5.4 rebounds and 4.1 assists per contest. The third overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the rookie has been a key part of Philadelphia’s campaign this season. They overcame a poor start to the season to have a 26-21 record and the sixth seed at the time of writing.