Brian Windhorst has poured cold water on rumors of Giannis Antetokounmpo leaving the "Milwaukee Bucks" anytime soon. The ESPN insider made it clear during Tuesday's episode of Get Up that no trade discussions are currently happening for the Greek superstar.
"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 firmly.
This development comes after weeks of speculation following the "Bucks'" disappointing third consecutive first-round playoff exit. Many thought Antetokounmpo might be looking elsewhere, especially after Damian Lillard's devastating Achilles tear put a massive dent in Milwaukee's prospects for next season.
Last month, reports from ESPN's Shams Charania suggested the two-time Finals MVP was "open-minded" about his future. But now? Looks like loyalty might be winning out.
Interestingly, the "Golden State Warriors" might be breathing a sigh of relief. If they can't acquire the 9-time All-Star themselves, having him stay in the Eastern Conference with the "Bucks" is preferable to seeing him join another Western Conference rival.
By the way, Joe Lacob, the Warriors' owner, has reportedly dreamed of pairing Antetokounmpo with franchise cornerstone Stephen Curry – imagining the league's most dominant interior force alongside its greatest shooter ever.
Antetokounmpo's credentials remain impeccable. He averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, 6.5 assists, and 1.2 blocks this season, finishing third in MVP voting behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic. Not bad, right? It marked his seventh straight top-four MVP finish, having claimed the award twice in 2019 and 2020.
Will the Greek star eventually request a trade? Perhaps he's waiting for this NBA season to officially conclude before making any announcements. For now though, Milwaukee fans can breathe a little easier.
