Since the Milwaukee Bucks and Giannis Antetokounmpo saw their season come to an end at the hands of the Indiana Pacers in the first round of the playoffs, rumors have begun swirling about the future of the superstar forward.
Those rumors have become deafening following the recent report from ESPN insider Shams Charania.
Charania has reported that Antetokounmpo is open to the idea of being traded to a different team.
"The two-time NBA MVP has not made any firm decisions on his Bucks future after the franchise's third consecutive postseason exit in the first round, but, for the first time in his career, Antetokounmpo is open-minded about exploring whether his best long-term fit is remaining in Milwaukee or playing elsewhere, league sources told ESPN," Charania wrote.
While the report has led to many expecting an offseason trade involving Antetokounmpo, that won't necessarily be the case. There is still a strong chance that the Bucks can figure something out with him to keep him in town.
Charles Barkley has now spoken out about the situation. He sent a strong message about Antetokounmpo and his future in Milwaukee.
"He don't have to move. I would love to see him spend his entire career in Milwaukee," Barkley said.
Antetokounmpo left everything he had on the court in the series against the Pacers. He averaged 33 points, 15.4 rebounds, 6.6 assists, a block, and a steal in five games, while shooting 60.6% from the floor.
Former NBA star Dwight Howard has also spoken out on the prospect of Antetokounmpo leaving the Bucks.
"He's been in Milwaukee forever, so just leaving is gonna leave a sour taste in all the fans' mouth[s]," Howard said.
Mar 24, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) celebrates a play against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34).
Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Entering the NBA offseason, many eyes will be on Antetokounmpo and Milwaukee. Barkley would rather see the superstar stick with the Bucks, but the franchise will need to prove to him that they can win another championship.
For the first time, it's a legitimate possibility that the "Greek Freak" could be on his way out of Milwaukee.