Bucks’ latest loss to Pacers could fast-track Giannis Antetokounmpo’s exit

According to a New York Post reporter, the Bucks' recent playoff loss to the Pacers hasn't sat well with Giannis Antetokounmpo and may have implications for his future.

Bucks’ latest loss to Pacers could fast-track Giannis Antetokounmpo’s exit

Giannis Antetokounmpo (Image via NBA/X)

The Milwaukee Bucks lost to the Indiana Pacers again in Game 2 after losing Game 1 a few days ago. There are no good signs for the Bucks, who want to keep hold of their star man, Giannis Antetokounmpo. However, by the looks of it, it does not seem Antetokounmpo would want to stay at the Bucks next season. The Greek star was at the helm of the attack for the Bucks in both games of the NBA playoffs against the Pacers.

He was the finest performer on the court and dominated, like he was in Game 1. And the game produced the same outcome once more. With the victory, the Pacers have a commanding 2-0 series lead. Antetokounmpo had 34 points, 18 rebounds, and 7 assists at the end of Game 2. He had 36 points, 12 rebounds, and 1 assist at the end of Game 1.

The Milwaukee front office has been under pressure to provide Antetokounmpo with the players he needs to compete for a title. However that may not be the case anymore.

Giannis Antetokounmpo reportedly enjoys New York, owns multiple businesses there, and is reportedly viewed by the Brooklyn Nets as a prime target.

New York Post reporter Brian Lewis stated

According to Lewis, the Nets consider Antetokounmpo a “prime target,” but there’s no denying that other teams will also be interested. Although it’s getting late quickly, Antetokounmpo and the Bucks still have time to win their series against the Pacers. But it looks like the Bucks star will leave the franchise at the end of this season.

With a plethora of assets, including several first-round picks, the Nets are eager to add a great player with New York connections, like Antetokounmpo, to their squad. The Nets have more negotiating leverage since they have 15 first-round picks remaining through 2031.

Discussions on Antetokounmpo’s trade may heat up if the Bucks don’t make it far into the playoffs, and the Nets are anticipated to pursue him aggressively. More picks could be used as negotiating leverage in subsequent drafts.

Pacers secure 2-0 advantage over the Bucks going into Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs

The Indiana Pacers defeated the Bucks 123-115 on Tuesday to grab a 2-0 advantage in their NBA Eastern Conference first-round playoff series. This was despite another strong showing from Milwaukee star Giannis Antetokounmpo and the comeback of Damian Lillard.

Notably, unlike last year, Antetokounmpo and Lillard have lacked significant chemistry this season. One of the major reasons for the Bucks to fare poorly throughout the regular NBA season and now in the playoffs as well.

Just like Game 1, the Greek freak received no support. Lillard chimed in with a mere 14 points on his return.

On the other hand, the Pacers played like a proper unit against the Bucks. More than 5 players scored in double-digits for their side, with the likes of Tyrese Haliburton (21 points) and Pascal Siakam (24 points) leading in attack. All attention now drifts to Game 3 of this playoff series.

NBA insider Chris Haynes provided his feelings on the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade situation

If the Bucks lose their next game, things might get scary, and the team’s future will be in the spotlight. Antetokounmpo’s status with the team would undoubtedly be questioned (more) if they do fall in the opening round. Chris Haynes, an NBA insider, recently discussed Antetokounmpo’s fate with the organization and expressed his belief that he will not play his final games with the Bucks.

I don’t think Giannis will finish his career in Milwaukee. Wholesale changes are coming in if they don’t make a deep run in the playoffs, front office, coaching staff.

Chris Haynes said on the Dan Patrick Show

Moreover, the Bucks have been poor for many years in the NBA now. It would not be surprising if the franchise chooses to make major changes going into the offseason. However, the prospect of their star, Giannis, leaving would surely cause some unrest among the Bucks fanbase.