Giannis Antetokoumpo and the Milwaukee Bucks recently won a blockbuster trade. For the last few seasons, the team has been extremely dominant with the Greek Freak on their side. As an individual, Giannis has been playing very well, earning big-time recognition. He is already a 2x MVP, 2021 Finals MVP, 2021 NBA Champion, Defensive Player of the Year, and multiple-time All-Star.
But recently, the European star voiced his frustration regarding the Bucks. His future with the team was left in question after he openly admitted that he might leave next year. Giannis’ frustrations stemmed from the Bucks’ not being able to carry forward the same momentum from the 2021 NBA Finals. He said that if his teammates aren’t as motivated as him, he will not hesitate to leave.
However, with Milwaukee landing Damian Lillard via a three-team trade involving the Portland Trail Blazers and Phoenix Suns, Giannis Antetokounmpo might stay until further notice. Lillard has shown deep interest in pursuing an NBA title which works out perfectly for the former MVP. However, Jimmy Butler was left with a bitter taste in his mouth as the Miami Heat was supposed to acquire Lillard. He subtly accused the Bucks of tampering as well.
Giannis Antetokounmpo rejected the idea of playing alongside rival Jimmy Butler
The Bucks managed to outplay the Heat in this trade. The only reason Butler was upset about this trade was because Milwaukee has been Miami’s biggest rival in the East. Giannis and his squad may cause problems for the Heat later on. However, this dynasty would’ve involved Butler back in 2018.
Nobody expected Jimmy to become the leader that he is. The league did not see him being a force during the playoffs which he only proved after joining the Heat. In 2018, Butler was unhappy with the Minnesota Timberwolves and wanted to play elsewhere. Milwaukee had approached the All-Star in hopes of pairing him alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Giannis Antetokounmpo Refused To Let The Bucks Trade For Jimmy Butler In 2018 https://t.co/4ifosfCm8b
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 28, 2023
However, the Bucks were unlucky in convincing their star about the trade. Giannis vetoed the trade which ultimately paved the way for the Heat to sign Butler. In retrospect, Butler would’ve been a good replacement for Khris Middleton. The latter has been battling injuries for the last two seasons which has taken a toll on the Bucks. But their current situation will elevate them further into the playoffs, with Giannis potentially winning his next few titles.
