Milwaukee confident in revamped roster as Antetokounmpo signals short-term commitment
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Milwaukee — The Bucks say they are aligned with Giannis Antetokounmpo after an offseason that briefly stirred speculation about the two-time MVP’s long-term plans and generated trade chatter involving the New York Knicks.
Asked this week about an ESPN report that he considered requesting a move to New York, Antetokounmpo praised Milwaukee’s retooled roster and said he is not looking to leave, though he stopped short of pledging to remain with the franchise beyond his current deal. The 30-year-old forward is signed through 2027-28 with a player option for the final season and becomes eligible for an extension next summer.
Team officials told ESPN they upgraded aggressively to avoid wasting a year of Antetokounmpo’s prime. Their most debated decision was waiving and stretching Damian Lillard’s contract to create cap space for free-agent center Myles Turner. “It wasn’t a panic move. It was a basketball decision,” a team source said, adding that Turner “is a perfect fit.”
Historic start for Antetokounmpo
Toronto rotated multiple defensive looks at Antetokounmpo on Friday, but he still produced 31 points on 11-for-14 shooting, 20 rebounds and seven assists in a six-point victory. Through two games he is the first player in league history to collect at least 60 points, 30 rebounds and 10 assists to open a season. “He’s the best player in the world in my opinion,” guard Cole Anthony said after contributing 23 points and seven assists.
Turner finding rhythm
Turner is averaging 7.5 points and 6.5 rebounds while shooting 30 percent, yet Milwaukee has fared better with him on the floor thanks to his 3.5 assists and 2.5 blocks per game. He also delivered a highlight dunk in Wednesday’s season-opening win over Washington. Antetokounmpo said Turner’s mix of three-point range, pump-fakes and rim attacks will diversify the offense.
Kuzma sidelined
Forward Kyle Kuzma left Friday’s contest in Toronto with a left ankle sprain and did not return. The club has not indicated whether the injury will keep him out beyond that game.
Source: Hoops Rumors
