It's safe to say Milwaukee Bucks fans [should feel comfortable breathing easier](https://behindthebuckpass.com/nbas-trade-bucks-fans-laughing-recent-giannis-chatter) right now than they were when the season first ended. There were so many initial rumors that Giannis Antetokounmpo could request a trade and head elsewhere this summer, but we continue to see those rumors shut down and smashed. Recently, Doc Rivers appeared on Bill Simmons' podcast to give one more crushing blow to those who hope to see Giannis traded.
"I don't know how many more times Giannis has to say he wants to be a Buck, and he wants to win a title with the Bucks," Rivers said. This came after Simmons and Rivers had a good laugh about the rumors and all the misinformation going around.
Of course, the NBA rumor mills never truly sleep, so it's doubtful we'll see the end of the fake trades and the jersey swaps until next season actually begins and Giannis is still in Milwaukee. However, for those who care about the truth and the reality of the situation, this quote from the Bucks' coach could serve to at least temporarily dull the chatter.
Rivers shot down Giannis trade rumors
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And frankly, a public comment like this from Doc Rivers should feel like something of a morale boost for the organization as well. Ever since the title run in 2021, the Bucks have certainly had their share of adversity. Fans of bottom-dwelling teams will laugh at this statement, but it's true when you consider the grand scope of everything this team has endured.
Injuries, an aging roster, coaching changes and other factors have kept Milwaukee from getting out of the first round of the playoffs for three of the last four postseasons, including the last three in a row. The Bucks have won a grand total of one playoff round since taking home the Larry O'Brien in July 2021.
This kind of message from Rivers, even if it's a subtle one, serves to give some reassurance to the fanbase. There are [remaining questions about Milwaukee's roster](https://behindthebuckpass.com/a-gap-year-bucks-vital-long-term-regard), and how they will navigate potentially all of next season without Damian Lillard's services. But honestly, those things can take a back seat for the time being.
Knowing that Antetokounmpo is all-in on winning another title with the Bucks means this franchise gets to keep its north star. In an era where stars are constantly looking for the next great opportunity, it's special to see Giannis continuing to embrace the team that drafted him. Make smart moves and don't get complacent, and Milwaukee's championship window is still firmly open.