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Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo looks on. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)
NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo made more comments to put his future in doubt with the Milwaukee Bucks. The two-time MVP staying with Milwaukee past the trade deadline gave Bucks management some peace of mind for his future with the franchise. No franchise wants to trade one of the best players in the world and arguably the top overall legend in the team’s entire history.
However, Milwaukee may still be on borrowed time after Antetokounmpo’s recent quote showed he’s still unsure about his NBA future:
“I don’t know if I’ll leave. It’s not up to me. If it was up to me, maybe I already would have left. In a year and a half, when I become a free agent at 32, it will be up to me.”
Giannis has given differing statements about his desire to remain with the Bucks. Some comments have indicated that Antetokounmpo would love to retire in Milwaukee and spend his entire career with one franchise. Unfortunately for the Bucks, Giannis still talks about wanting to compete for an NBA Championship. This recent comment indicates Antetokounmpo will likely prioritize the latter and could leave for a better team soon.
Why Bucks Must Fear Giannis’ Comment
Offseason reports and varying changes this season have shown that Antetokounmpo is not above looking at trades. No ideal team on the market blowing both sides away with a great deal and perfect situation led to Giannis being content staying with the franchise. Public comments from Antetokounmpo still see him wanting to compete this season.
Milwaukee is currently twelfth in the Eastern Conference and must fight to even make one of the play-in seeds. The worst season of Giannis’ career since becoming a superstar, in terms of postseason success, could force him to push the trade desire once more teams are in play this summer.
Antetokounmpo referencing free agency means that he could stay with the franchise throughout next season and opt out of his contract with a player clause. If the Bucks can’t improve next season, Giannis has control of his own future to sign with teams being able to sign him without giving up their top assets.
Bucks Trying Hard To Appease Giannis
Milwaukee constantly trying to appease Giannis and ensure his happiness with various trades led to the issue they are currently in. Most future assets were moved in deals for Damian Lillard, Jrue Holiday, and Myles Turner in previous moves to improve their title chances.
Bucks’ management is rumored to have interest in Ja Morant and every other relevant name that could be on the move. The hope is that one or two more deals could improve the roster to give Antetokounmpo a fair chance of contending.
Milwaukee’s current goals are to try to get progression out of their younger role players and give offensive freedom to recently signed guard Cam Thomas. Giannis appears to be giving the Bucks a chance to convince him they can still contend, but these latest comments show he’s still willing to leave if the team fails to improve.