The Milwaukee Bucks were ready to enter the stretch run at full strength, but they were just dealt two big blows. First comes the news that superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo could want out if the Bucks can't build a contender around him.
.@ShamsCharania provides the latest intel on Giannis and his future with the Bucks ✍️ pic.twitter.com/C95lCmBmDM
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) February 20, 2025
Although that may not be shocking, ESPN's Shams Charania confirmed that that's the case, and it adds pressure on the Bucks to succeed this season. Otherwise, they risk Giannis wanting out this summer or potentially next summer.
It's possible that they could make a deep playoff run. Still, with them fifth in the Eastern Conference and seemingly behind both the Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, and New York Knicks as far as talent, it seems unlikely at the moment.
Especially after news that sixth man Bobby Portis Jr. is suspended for 25 games, or virtually most of the remainder of the regular season. While he will be back ahead of and for the postseason, the Bucks can't afford to lose their Sixth Man, especially with them trying to integrate Kyle Kuzma into the rotation. That ensures that Milwaukee won't be at full strength as they try to make a playoff push.
The Milwaukee Bucks seemingly face uphill odds to keep Giannis Antetokounmpo
Teams will certainly be watching closely to see what happens with the Bucks this season. If they are again upset in the playoffs by losing in the first round for the third straight year, it could result in Giannis forcing the Bucks' hand with him demanding to be traded.
That'll be a big change of event after the Bucks had a poor start to the season only to rally to win the in-season tournament. Milwaukee has played with more consistency recently, but they had a questionable trade deadline that saw them trade longtime Buck Khris Middleton to acquire Kuzma.
Time will tell if that trade works out for the Bucks, but the pressure is on for them to get back into contention. If they can, then that would appease Giannis. However, if they can't, then Giannis could be the next superstar to end up being traded.
Unlike the Luka Doncic trade, the Bucks could get top dollar for their franchise player, with them possibly starting the bidding price at four first-round picks and a good young player. Teams such as the Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets, and Brooklyn Nets can all meet that asking price.
The Bucks know what's at stake: win and keep their superstar happy or lose early in the playoffs and potentially see Giannis leave. That adds another layer of pressure to the Bucks as they enter the final stretch of the regular season; we'll see how they respond.