Bucks gamble on Giannis Antetokounmpo carrying even bigger load without second option

The Milwaukee Bucks have signaled that Giannis Antetokounmpo will serve as the main engine of their offense next season. With Jon Horst’s stronger push to raise their 3-point volume, they will count on him to collapse defenses and dish to shooters on the perimeter. Pairing that workload with his duties as one of the NBA’s most dominant scorers and adaptable defenders is a tall order. His usage rate might climb higher than ever before.

Giannis Antetokounmpo needs help

That approach might hold up during a short playoff run, but asking Giannis Antetokounmpo to shoulder that load over 82 regular season games is another story. His relentless drives to the rim already leave him absorbing heavy contact night after night, making rest a necessity. The challenge grows even tougher considering he had little downtime this summer while competing in EuroBasket, adding more strain to his body.

Giannis has battled injuries in two of the last three postseasons, so the Bucks can’t risk wearing him down again. They can lean on him as the offensive initiator, but they must manage his workload carefully.

Without a proven safety net like Khris Middleton, Jrue Holiday, or Damian Lillard, the new-look roster must rise to the challenge when Giannis sits. Milwaukee cannot afford to fall apart the moment he leaves the floor.

This situation highlights why many were surprised the Milwaukee Bucks chose not to bring in a veteran ball-handler this offseason. A seasoned playmaker could have steadied the offense, yet Milwaukee has put its faith in the young trio of Kevin Porter Jr., Ryan Rollins, and Cole Anthony. After leaning on experienced guards for years, the Bucks are taking a bold gamble, but the upside is clear if the group delivers.

The Milwaukee Bucks must piece together a roster that can compete through the regular season while preserving Giannis Antetokounmpo’s energy for when the playoffs arrive.