The Milwaukee Bucks organization could be in a drastically different place in a week’s time.
Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has been the subject of trade rumors since his team was eliminated from postseason contention. Milwaukee lost 4-1 in the first round to the Indiana Pacers, a series that also saw Damian Lillard tear his Achilles tendon.
With the Bucks’ short-term future in dire straits, speculation has understandably swirled on Antetokounmpo potentially asking for a way out of Wisconsin.
The Bucks have reportedly “made contact” with Giannis and have scheduled a meeting with the two-time MVP slated for sometime next week. According to NBA reporter Chris Haynes, the meeting is meant for Antetokounmpo and the Bucks brass to discuss the team’s direction going forward.
The Bucks’ supporting cast around Giannis was largely unimpressive this season, even at full strength. The situation is expected to look much worse with Lillard likely out for the entirety of next season. Milwaukee also has minimal draft capital after trading a handful of their picks to acquire Lillard and, before him, former Bucks point guard Jrue Holiday. The team simply does not have enough assets to make a big splash in the trade market.
If Giannis truly wants the best chance to contend next season, his best bet is to leave Milwaukee to go to a team with established stars on top of other tradable assets. On the other hand, Antetokounmpo has been the poster child of franchise loyalty over the years.
Local reporters have insisted that Giannis isn’t going anywhere. Even Antetokounmpo himself issued a playful four-word message on his future with the team.
