Bucks in discussions with Giannis Antetokounmpo regarding possible departure from team; Giannis gets injured soon after discussions

The Milwaukee Bucks have reportedly begun discussions with Giannis Antetokounmpo regarding his long-term role with the team and whether he might be better suited to remain in Milwaukee or explore opportunities elsewhere, according to ESPN insider Shams Charania. Sources indicate a decision could be reached in the next few weeks.

Shortly after the report, Antetokounmpo suffered a non-contact calf strain during the first quarter of Milwaukees matchup against the Detroit Pistons. The exact extent of the injury and the expected recovery period remain uncertain, though he was ruled out of the game immediately after leaving the court.

Coaching Staff Denies Trade Requests

Before Wednesdays game, head coach Doc Rivers insisted that Antetokounmpo had never requested a trade. Giannis has never asked to be traded. Ever. I cant make that clearer, Rivers stated. He also refuted claims that the Bucks had initiated any discussions with Antetokounmpo or his agent, Alex Saratsis. While Rivers is not part of the teams front office, General Manager Jon Horst has not publicly addressed the report.

Bucks Struggle in Current Season

The conversation about Antetokounmpos future comes as Milwaukee sits at 9-13, placing them 11th in the Eastern Conference. Despite being a nine-time All-Star and two-time NBA MVP who led the Bucks to their second championship in 2021, the team has not been a serious title contender since. Antetokounmpo, 30, continues to be one of the leagues most dominant players.

Milwaukees roster has undergone significant changes since the championship run, with former teammates Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday no longer on the team. Plans to build a new contender around Antetokounmpo were derailed when Damian Lillard suffered a season-ending Achilles injury. The Bucks started this season 6-3 but have since gone 3-10, losing eight of their last nine games. Antetokounmpo also missed four games due to a groin injury.

Speculation on Future Moves

Antetokounmpo recently removed references to the Bucks from his social media, prompting further speculation about his dissatisfaction with the teams current state. At a media day in September, he emphasized his desire to play for a winning organization. Currently, he is under a three-year, $186 million contract extension signed in 2023, which includes a player option for the 2027-28 season.

For now, the immediate focus is on Antetokounmpos recovery from the calf injury as the Bucks navigate a challenging season.

Author: Chloe Ramirez