His contributions will never be forgotten by Bucks fans. However, ClutchPoints' NBA insider Brett Siegel revealed on Friday that his superstar teammate influenced the trade. Siegel reports that Antetokounmpo was open to trading Middleton. However, he didn't think the Bucks would make the move this season.

Durant's name has swirled through the rumor mill for a while now, much to his initial surprise. When Phoenix cut ties with former coach Mike Budenolzer upon completion of its colossally disappointing (and wildly expensive) campaign, ESPN's Shams Charania relayed that the club "is expected to engage in trade discussions involving Durant."