Giannis Antetokounmpo’s long-term dedication to the Milwaukee Bucks has change into an more and more important matter amongst NBA insiders following Damian Lillard’s Achilles tendon tear, which threatens to compromise the crew’s championship aspirations subsequent season.
Regardless of Antetokounmpo averaging 30.4 factors, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists this season—probably incomes him third place in MVP voting—questions persist about Milwaukee’s aggressive window. The Bucks weren’t broadly anticipated to compete within the East past the primary spherical even with a wholesome Lillard, and his absence additional complicates their path ahead.
“The query for the entire NBA is ‘what does Giannis do about it?'” ESPN’s Brian Windhorst stated on NBA Immediately. “Does Giannis point out to the crew he needs to remain put and stay a Buck going ahead. Or does Giannis point out he could need to go searching? If the reply is B, your complete NBA offseason will hinge on it.”
Windhorst emphasised the importance of Antetokounmpo’s resolution, including: “I do not even suppose any crew could make a giant transfer till they work out what Giannis may desire.”
Although Antetokounmpo signed an extension in October 2023 following the Lillard commerce—retaining him below contract till 2027—his satisfaction with the crew’s route may drive potential commerce discussions. The Bucks face further challenges in retooling their roster, as they do not control their own first-round draft pick until 2031.
The group now faces vital choices about the way to preserve competitiveness round their famous person ahead whereas navigating Lillard’s harm restoration and restricted draft belongings.
