When the offseason started, many assumed the Milwaukee Bucks would have almost no choice but to trade Giannis Antetokounmpo. Yet, the premise of that assumption was based on the reality that Damian Lillard tore his Achilles and would thus miss the entirety of the season, leaving the Greek Freak without his superstar partner.
Now that Lillard has been jettisoned from the roster so the Bucks could fit Myles Turner in their budget, the Giannis trade rumors have largely dissipated. Yet, it may be too early to stick a fork in those talks.
According to ESPN’s NBA expert Shams Charania, no firm decision has been made on whether to trade Antetokounmpo or not.
“Sources tell me there’s still nothing set in stone about whether Giannis Antetokounmpo will stay in Milwaukee or whether he will be leaving.”
Shams Charania on Giannis Antetokounmpo
While the Bucks likely want to see how they perform during the early portion of the season before trading their best player away, they may revisit the idea if Milwaukee gets off to a tough start. Then again, if Antetokounmpo suddenly gets a strong urge to join another top contender, the Bucks may feel like they have no choice but to respect his wishes.
For now, Antetokounmpo’s heart remains in Milwaukee, but as we’ve seen from NBA superstars time and time again, change happens quickly.
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Sports fan since birth. I am also passionate about cars, music, and anything funny. Minnesotan, born and raised. Maybe ... More about Andrew Buller-Russ