Giannis Antetokounmpo left the door open to a potential offseason pivot, saying he wants to win another championship with the Milwaukee Bucks but may reconsider his future if contending is no longer part of the plan.
The Milwaukee Bucks made it through the February trade deadline without having to consider moving franchise cornerstone Giannis Antetokounmpo.
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However, his recent comments suggest the possibility of an offseason "pivot" remains if the team cannot build a legitimate championship contender.
Speaking to Malika Andrews of ESPN during All-Star Weekend, Giannis made it clear that winning is his top priority.
"The most important thing I want to win a championship with the Milwaukee Bucks, and if that's not on the table or in the plans, that's when you kind of like, 'Okay, maybe I got pivot because I really want to win,'" Giannis said.
At the same time, Antetokounmpo emphasized his loyalty to the organization and the people around him.
"I can't predict the future. I love wearing that jersey. I will never ever disrespect people that have helped me," Greek Freak said. "I feel like sometimes when I say [I won't demand a trade], people don't listen to what I'm saying, and they go and listen to everything around me, the Giannis camp. I have no camp. My camp is my wife, my kids, and my brothers. That's my camp."
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Now 31 and a two-time MVP, Giannis has consistently stated that he wants another opportunity to compete for – and win – a championship.
Milwaukee could use the offseason to reshape the roster and convince him to sign an extension when he becomes eligible on October 1, rather than explore trade scenarios.
Before the February 5 deadline, the Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Golden State Warriors were reportedly among the most aggressive teams monitoring his situation, though the Bucks were never seriously open to trading him.
If the situation changes in the offseason, additional contenders could enter the mix. The Los Angeles Lakers are already believed to view themselves as a potential destination should Antetokounmpo request a move out of Milwaukee.
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