The Milwaukee Bucks will enter the upcoming NBA offseason with major questions that need to be answered. Most importantly, what is the future of superstar forward Giannis Antetokounmpo?
Over the last month, there have been a lot of rumors and speculation about his future. It has even been reported that he is "open" to the idea of being traded.
Despite those reports, the Bucks would prefer to keep Antetokounmpo. He is also loyal to the franchise, but he wants to compete for a championship.
In order to compete for a championship, Milwaukee will need to make some moves this offseason. The team's chances took an even bigger hit due to superstar point guard Damian Lillard going down with a torn Achilles in the playoff series against the Indiana Pacers.
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How could the Bucks replace him for the 2025-26 season and bring in a piece that could support Antetokounmpo and Lillard when he returns from the injury? One option has been suggested.
Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report has predicted Milwaukee to be the landing spot for veteran free agent point guard D'Angelo Russell.
"Russell is a talented scorer and capable shooter, but he has remained a journeyman throughout his career. The Nets may pay him simply to reach the minimum team salary (projected to be $139.2 million), but that might be designed to turn his contract around as a tradable asset," wrote Pincus.
"Perhaps the Milwaukee Bucks step up with the best offer at the TMLE."
Russell would be a nice addition for the Bucks. He put together a solid all-around year split between the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers.
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In 58 total games and 36 starts, Russell averaged 12.6 points, 5.1 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and a steal per game, while shooting 39 percent from the floor and 31.4 percent from three-point range.
Clearly, he didn't produce his best season, but he's more than capable of being a quality addition for a team like Milwaukee. If they can get him at the right price, the Bucks should pursue him.
Signing Russell would be a step in the right direction, but the front office would need to do more. Keeping Antetokounmpo and competing for an NBA championship will be no easy task. Milwaukee has a lot of work to do this offseason.
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This story was originally published June 21, 2025 at 9:29 AM.