Giannis Antetokounmpo was one of the most talked-about players during the February trade saga. The world speculated that he could leave the Milwaukee Bucks before the trade deadline, but it was certainly surprising to see that he was staying with the team.
Antetokounmpo has been quite vocal in expressing his thoughts about the roster’s shortcomings, especially after three first-round exits in a row.
The Greek superstar’s future is still in major question, as the Bucks ponder whether they could let the face of their franchise leave. Antetokounmpo is currently on a $175.39 million contract, and he will become an unrestricted free agent in the 2028-29 season.
Doc Rivers Offers Key Insight Into Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Mindset
The trade rumors may have well and truly affected him, or the team generally. That’s what Doc Rivers has mentioned on multiple occasions this year. During a recent podcast appearance with Bill Simmons, Rivers mentioned that the trade reports on Antetokounmpo didn’t really do any favors for the team.
In the same podcast, Rivers also explained what Antetokounmpo is currently feeling. He said, “I don’t think Giannis knows if he wants to say or not. And I don’t know, the organization knows one way or not, either. And it’s just, it’s too bad, because I just hope that part is figured out.
That’s quite a concerning admission that both parties apparently don’t know how to take this forward. Antetokounmpo still hasn’t requested a trade out of Milwaukee, but reports say he’s open to leaving. The New York Knicks and the Golden State Warriors are two teams constantly mentioned alongside the former champion.
Rivers also mentioned the importance of keeping the bond alive between Antetokounmpo and the Bucks. “When you win a title with someone, there’s like a blood transfusion, and that transfusion shouldn’t be broken,” he added.
The Bucks won the 2021 championship under Antetokounmpo’s leadership against the Phoenix Suns. It was their first chip in 50 years, and everyone thought it was the start of something special for Milwaukee. Since then, the Bucks have endured three first-round exits, followed by an Eastern Conference Semifinals loss to the Boston Celtics.
One of the main reasons behind the Bucks’ downfall is injuries. They acquired Damian Lillard in a huge trade, but then the sharpshooter was waived after suffering an Achilles injury. Myles Turner was the player that the Bucks chose to sign instead.
While the Bucks have an aging roster, they certainly don’t look close to a title shot, which could be a red flag for their superstar, Antetokounmpo. Only time will tell what he chooses to do this summer, with the Knicks and Warriors lurking in the background.
