'Entire NBA Offseason Will Hinge' On Giannis Antetokounmpo's Decision With Bucks
Giannis Antetokounmpo's long-term commitment to the Milwaukee Bucks has become an increasingly significant topic among NBA insiders following Damian Lillard's Achilles tendon tear, which threatens to compromise the team's championship aspirations next season.
Despite Antetokounmpo averaging 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists this season—likely earning him third place in MVP voting—questions persist about Milwaukee's competitive window. The Bucks were not widely expected to compete in the East beyond the first round even with a healthy Lillard, and his absence further complicates their path forward.
"The question for the whole NBA is 'what does Giannis do about it?'" ESPN's Brian Windhorst said on NBA Today. "Does Giannis indicate to the team he wants to stay put and remain a Buck going forward. Or does Giannis indicate he may want to look around? If the answer is B, the entire NBA offseason will hinge on it."
Windhorst emphasized the significance of Antetokounmpo's decision, adding: "I don't even think any team can make a big move until they figure out what Giannis might prefer."
Though Antetokounmpo signed an extension in October 2023 following the Lillard trade—keeping him under contract until 2027—his satisfaction with the team's direction could drive potential trade discussions. The Bucks face additional challenges in retooling their roster, as they do not control their own first-round draft pick until 2031.
The organization now faces critical decisions about how to maintain competitiveness around their superstar forward while navigating Lillard's injury recovery and limited draft assets.