Despite Giannis Antetokounmpo‘s continuing tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks, his likelihood of leaving the team increased as the Brooklyn Nets have expressed interest in the “Greek Freak,” per an NBA reporter.
The Nets are 13-26 in the East this season, brought by their process of rebuilding their roster. While the team focuses on acquiring prospects and young players, they never lost interest in acquiring Antetokounmpo, who has a five-year, $175.3 million contract extension with the Bucks.
Insider Marc Stein reported Giannis Antetokounmpo as the Nets’ “dream target,” hoping to add significant power to their developing lineup.
“The scenario repeatedly cited in conversation with rival teams always winds up in the same place: Nets have long been described and continue to be painted as a team determined to be in position to trade for Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo someday,” Stein tweeted.
Mac Stein:
“The scenario repeatedly cited in conversation with rival teams always winds up in the same place: Nets have long been described and continue to be painted as a team determined to be in position to trade for Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo someday” @TheSteinLine— NetsDaily (@NetsDaily) January 12, 2025
However, Stein also clarified that Antetekounmpo has no interest in leaving the Bucks, something that the Nets need to fulfill their desires in getting the 30-year-old, eight-time NBA All-Star.
“Reminder: Someday depends on Antetokounmpo pushing the Bucks to trade him…Something he has shown no known inclination to do. There remains zero expectation that the Bucks would even consider the notion of trading Antetokounmpo unless he pushed for it,” Stein wrote.
Through obtaining Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Nets seek to make another promising roster centered around him, utilizing his averaging 31.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists this season to land them a spot in the NBA Finals. The team’s chances are low, brought by Antetokounmpo’s leadership in the Bucks and their 20-17 standing.
However, if the Bucks fail to meet postseason expectations, Antetokounmpo might reconsider the Nets’ option and move there.
Giannis Antetokounmpo sends message to Bucks teammates amidst loss against Knicks
Giannis Antetokounmpo approved of New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson’s performance after dominating their team this Sunday. During an interview at the locker, the Milwaukee Bucks imparted lessons to his teammates on countering Brunson’s playstyle on the court.
“You’re going to want to do your best, and he (Brunson) takes advantage of that. He takes his time whenever you show your hand. He’s going to take advantage of that. If you leave your feet, he’s going to take advantage of that,” Antetokounmpo said.
“He’s extremely smart so you just got to do a better job on him.”
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 24 points and 13 rebounds proved futile against Brunson’s 44 points in their game. While the latter received significant support from Karl Anthony-Towns and the Knicks, Antetokounmpo only got the aid of Damian Lillard, who scored 22 points for the Bucks.
The Bucks will face the Sacramento Kings next on Tuesday.
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