Giannis Antetokounmpo is in full control of his destiny at the Bucks right now, according to the latest reports.
If the Greek Freak is to be traded, it would be of his own volition, NBA insider Marc Stein reports.
Rival teams don’t expect the Bucks to show “any willingness” to move Giannis and will only discuss trades if he wants out.
“It is understood quite clearly in 29 other front offices that Antetokounmpo is only ever going to be made available for trade if he pushes for it,” Stein reported Sunday.
The Bucks are 2-8 to start the season and have been trying to get some trade negotiations underway, but luxury tax restrictions have been hindering the franchise.
The 2022 champion are still trying to improve their depth around Giannis and Damian Lillard, but they’ve been “foiled more often than not” by restrictions as a team operating above the second tax apron, Stein says.
ESPN NBA insider Brian Windhorst is also sharing the news that the Bucks are “eyeing” a big trade to help them be competitive the rest of the season.
“The speculation is true,” Windhorst said. “The Bucks are indeed starting to canvas the league for a trade, league executives told ESPN. But no, not that trade. The concept of two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo reaching the trade market is ripe for rumors and trade machine computations, but it’s not a reality as of now for Antetokounmpo or the Bucks, sources said. Teams have let the Bucks know in recent months they would make an offer for the Greek Freak if that day ever comes. But those are incoming calls, not outgoing and it’s likely to remain that way.”
It’s clear that the Bucks will need some extra help in order to compete with the rest of the league. They are worlds apart form the 11-0 Cavs sitting atop the Eastern Conference.
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