Weekly Review: Milwaukee Bucks’ future in question
Over the past five years, the Milwaukee Bucks have exemplified remarkable consistency in the NBA. Anchored by the indomitable Giannis Antetokounmpo, the team's unwavering focus has been on achieving victories on the basketball court with little to no distractions.
However, that stability was recently rocked after Giannis’ comments regarding his future with the franchise, saying he’s willing to explore signing with another team if the Bucks do not do everything in its power to win NBA championships.
That said, here are five stories to follow as the Bucks try to determine their future:
All-Star swingman Khris Middleton has been Giannis’ teammate for a decade already. Together, they’ve seen their fair share of ups and downs, and it appears Middleton is taking Antetokounmpo’s impending free agency in stride.
Giannis’ future with the team isn’t the only thing the Milwaukee Bucks are concerned about. All-Star point guard Jrue Holiday is also up for a contract extension, and whatever happens with him will play a big role in the Bucks’ future.
Hindsight is always 20/20, and Middleton recently reflected on their loss in the Eastern Conference playoffs against the Miami Heat. In particular, Khris regrets not double-teaming Jimmy Butler during that series. Butler went on to average an incredible 37.6 points in the five-game series.
4. Report predicts AJ Green will be a pleasant surprise for the Milwaukee Bucks this season
The Bucks only have a few up-and-coming players who can provide immediate help. However, sophomore guard A.J. Green may buck the trend and become a pleasant surprise this season. Green has shown flashes of potential in the G-League, and his development could add an extra dimension to the Bucks’ already impressive offense.
The Bucks head to training camp with Jrue Holiday as the team’s legitimate point guard. Outside of the veteran playmaker, the Bucks lack any notable depth at the position. This is an unusual situation for a team considered to be a title contender and could lead to some interesting scenarios come playoff time.