Giannis Antetokounmpo appears to be staying with the "Milwaukee Bucks" despite swirling trade rumors following their third consecutive first-round playoff exit. ESPN's Brian Windhorst poured cold water on speculation that the two-time Finals MVP might be headed to the "Golden State Warriors" or elsewhere.
"Right now, there is no Giannis Antetokounmpo trade market, there is no Giannis Antetokounmpo trade discussions. He has not asked for it. The Bucks are not looking to trade him," – Windhorst stated during Tuesday's episode of Get Up.
The Greek superstar's future became this offseason's biggest storyline after the Bucks' disappointing playoff performance. Things looked even bleaker when Damian Lillard suffered a devastating torn Achilles injury, significantly hampering the team's prospects for next season.
Just a month ago, ESPN's Shams Charania reported Antetokounmpo was "open-minded" about his future, fueling trade speculation. But sentiment now seems to be shifting toward the 30-year-old remaining loyal to the "Bucks" despite these setbacks.
Interestingly, if Antetokounmpo stays in Milwaukee, it might actually benefit the "Warriors" in one way – keeping him in the Eastern Conference rather than seeing him join a Western rival. The California team has long been linked to the 9-time All-Star, with owner Joe Lacob reportedly dreaming of pairing him with franchise cornerstone Stephen Curry.
Who wouldn't want to see one of basketball's most dominant interior forces playing alongside the greatest shooter in history? That tantalizing prospect seems increasingly unlikely to materialize, though.
By the way, Antetokounmpo's individual excellence hasn't diminished amid the Bucks' struggles. He averaged an impressive 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, 6.5 assists and 1.2 blocks per game this season, finishing third in MVP voting behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic. Not too shabby – it marked his seventh consecutive top-four MVP finish.
Could things change if Antetokounmpo suddenly requests a trade after the NBA season officially concludes? Absolutely. But for now, it seems the Greek Freak's loyalty to Milwaukee remains intact.
